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Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)

Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)

A passenger train carrying an estimated 350 people has derailed in a tunnel in Taiwan, killing at least 36 and injuring dozens more.

 

The 408 Taroko Express came off the rails in a tunnel in the north of Hualien on Friday morning, April 2, causing several carriages to hit the wall of the tunnel, the government-run Central News Agency reported, citing the fire department.

 

Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)

 

The express train was travelling south towards Taitung on first day of a long weekend for the traditional Tomb Sweeping holiday, which sees extensive travel across the island.

 

Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)

 

The train driver and 35 passengers were killed, according to Taiwan’s Premier, Su Tseng-chang. 81 people have been injured, some in severe condition, while eight people are still stuck in carriages that were badly damaged in the accident.

 

Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)

 

CNA said a truck that was “not parked properly” was suspected of sliding into the path of the train.

 

The fire department showed a picture of what appeared to be the truck’s wreckage lying next to part of the derailed train.

 

Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)

 

“In response to a train derailment in Hualien, Taiwan, our emergency services have been fully mobilized to rescue & assist the passengers & railway staff affected,” Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said on Twitter.

 

“We will continue to do everything we can to ensure their safety in the wake of this heartbreaking incident.”

 

Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)Train carrying 350 people derails in Taiwan, with at least 36 dead and many injured (photos)

 

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