KRAKOR, CAMBODIA – A devastating collision between a train and a bus at a rail crossing in northwestern Cambodia resulted in 45 injuries, with five individuals in critical condition, according to authorities. The incident unfolded on Friday morning when the bus driver, who has since absconded, recklessly attempted to cross the tracks despite the oncoming train’s loud warning horn.
The train, unable to stop in time, crashed into the bus mid-section, propelling it several meters forward. Local police and villagers immediately rushed to the aid of the injured passengers, who were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.
Pursat province’s police chief, Gen. Sar Theng, revealed that a barrier had previously been at the crossing point, but it had been damaged and not yet replaced. However, a large sign cautioning drivers of the railroad crossing and advising slow movement was clearly visible at the site.
Rail crossings in Cambodia often lack safety barriers, which has led to multiple accidents in the past. According to Theng, all the bus passengers were locals who had rented the bus for a trip to a mountain nature resort.
Theng placed the blame squarely on the bus driver, stating that the tragedy could have been averted had the driver exercised caution. He emphasized that train engineers typically sound the horn when approaching populated areas and road junctions to warn people to stay clear of the tracks.
Last year alone, road accidents claimed nearly 1,600 lives in Cambodia, as per reports from the country’s national police and Ministry of Public Works and Transportation.