A tragic accident occurred in the Belgian town of Buggenhout. A train collided with a minibus carrying schoolchildren, resulting in multiple fatalities.
According to Oxu.Az, citing Belgian VRT television, the crash happened at 8:15 AM local time (10:15 AM Baku time) at a railway crossing in the Veyrheyzen area. Infrabel, the railway infrastructure operator, confirmed the incident.
The exact number of victims is still being determined. Emergency services are continuing their work at the scene. Infrabel reported that the crossing was closed at the time of the collision: the barriers were down and the traffic light was red. The circumstances under which the minibus ended up on the tracks are being investigated by police and prosecutors.
Surveillance cameras have confirmed that the crossing was closed when the accident occurred. According to the operator, the driver activated the emergency braking system, but could not avoid the collision. Approximately 100 train passengers were evacuated and taken to a fire station, where they received assistance. One person is reported to be in shock.
Severe disruptions have occurred on the railway line between Dendermonde and Londerzeel, so alternative bus services have been organized.
