In a tragic incident that highlights the ongoing safety concerns surrounding Egypt's railway system, a train collision in the city of Zagazig has resulted in the death of at least three people and left 49 others injured. The collision occurred on Saturday, prompting a swift response from the country's health ministry.

According to the health ministry, thirty ambulances and additional medical teams were immediately dispatched to the scene of the accident. The injured individuals were swiftly transported to Al-Ahrar and Zagazig University hospitals, where they are receiving medical treatment. Rescue operations are still ongoing, with authorities working tirelessly to ensure the safety of those affected.

Disturbing images from the scene depict a grim sight, as crowds of people gathered around the twisted wreckage of the trains. The magnitude of the collision is evident, emphasizing the urgency of rescue efforts and the dire need for improved safety measures within Egypt's aging railway system.

Sadly, this is not the first time Egypt has witnessed such a devastating incident on its railways. Alarming statistics reveal that there has been a deadly accident on the country's aging railway system nearly every year for the past two decades. Last year alone, Egypt recorded over 2,000 train accidents, while in 2020, there were nearly 1,800 reported accidents, according to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS).

Tragically, this recent collision adds to a long list of railway disasters in Egypt. In 2021, a collision between two trains claimed the lives of 32 people and left 165 others injured. Additionally, in 2019, a fire at Ramses station in central Cairo resulted in the death of at least 25 people and left dozens injured. The severity of these accidents underscores the urgent need for comprehensive safety reforms to prevent further loss of life.

Egypt's railway system has been marred by issues of infrastructure, maintenance, and safety regulations for far too long. Efforts must be made to address these concerns and prioritize the safety of passengers. The government and relevant authorities should take concrete steps to invest in modernizing the railway network, implementing stricter safety protocols, and providing comprehensive training for railway personnel.

While the cause of the collision in Zagazig is still under investigation, it is imperative that authorities swiftly identify any lapses in safety procedures and hold accountable those responsible for the incident. The lives lost and the injuries sustained serve as a tragic reminder of the urgent need for action to prevent future disasters on Egypt's railways.

As Egypt mourns the loss of three lives and prays for the recovery of the injured, there is a collective hope that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for significant reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of all those who rely on the country's railway system.