ZSR: Rail Traffic Should Be Fully Resumed on Line near Jablonov in Evening

Jablonov nad Turnou, 15 October (TASR) - State-run railway infrastructure operator ZSR expects traffic on the line near Jablonov nad Turnou in Kosice region to be fully restored on Wednesday evening, rail passenger carrier ZSSK told TASR on Wednesday, adding that trains on the section are still running on one track at a reduced speed of 10 kilometres per hour and there may be minimal delays. ZSSK also stated that the personal belongings of the passengers who were directly involved in the accident on Monday (13 October) have been collected and are currently being stored at the ZSSK customer centre at Kosice railway station. The national carrier stated that it has liability insurance which covers accidents. In accordance with legislation, ZSSK will contact all passengers who were on the R 913 and R 914 trains that collided on Monday. "After a thorough investigation of the incident and after the carrier's responsibility is proven, the affected people will be compensated," said ZSSK spokesman Jan Bacek. Two express trains collided in front of a tunnel near the village of Jablonov nad Turnou shortly after 10 a.m. on Monday. The accident happened at a point where tracks merge into a single track. Approximately 100 people were on the trains, and most of them were injured. After the accident, seven people were found to be in critical condition, 14 moderately injured and 48 slightly injured. Rail traffic on the section was partially restored on Tuesday (14 October) evening. The police have launched an investigation into the crime of general endangerment. Rail passenger carrier ZSSK in collaboration with ZSR is also investigating the accident. Another investigation is being conducted by the Transport Ministry, which is analysing the circumstances and proposing measures to improve safety. am/df