At least two people have lost their lives and 29 others have been injured in a tragic train collision that occurred in Egypt, according to the country's health ministry. The incident took place in the city of Zagazig, the capital of Al Sharkia governorate, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.

The health ministry swiftly dispatched thirty ambulances and additional medical teams to the scene, in an effort to provide aid and support to the victims. The injured individuals were promptly transferred to Al-Ahrar and Zagazig University hospitals for necessary medical treatment. Rescue operations are still underway, as authorities work diligently to assess the extent of the damage and provide assistance where needed.

Pictures captured at the scene shed light on the chaotic aftermath of the collision, with large crowds of onlookers crowding around the mangled wreckage of the trains. The rescue efforts are ongoing, as emergency personnel tirelessly work to save lives and ensure the safety of those affected.

This tragic incident once again highlights the systemic issues plaguing Egypt's aging railway system. Over the past two decades, the country has witnessed unfortunate accidents on its railways almost every year. In 2018 alone, Egypt recorded a staggering 2,044 train accidents. The figures remained high in 2019, with a total of 1,793 incidents reported, according to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS).

Unfortunately, this is not the first time Egypt has witnessed such catastrophic incidents. In 2021, a collision between two trains resulted in the loss of 32 lives and left 165 others injured. Additionally, in 2019, a devastating fire at Ramses station in central Cairo claimed the lives of 25 people, while a collision between two trains in Alexandria in 2017 resulted in over 40 fatalities and numerous injuries.

The most devastating accident in Egyptian rail history occurred in 2002, when a passenger train traveling from Cairo to Luxor caught fire, tragically claiming the lives of over 360 individuals.

These recurring incidents raise concerns about the safety standards and maintenance practices within the Egyptian railway system. Calls for urgent reforms and improved safety measures have been voiced by both the public and experts alike, hoping to prevent further loss of life and ensure the well-being of passengers.

Efforts must be made to address the underlying issues and prioritize the safety of travelers utilizing the railway system. Authorities and relevant stakeholders must work together to identify and rectify the deficiencies, ensuring that Egypt's railway network can regain public trust and provide a secure mode of transportation for all.