Two trains collided near Bratislava, injuring approximately 30 people, the Slovak newspaper SME reported, citing law enforcement sources.
Ambulance crews, rescue workers and police are working at the scene. The injured are being taken to the nearest medical facilities for treatment. Their injuries range from minor to moderate.
Slovak Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok quickly arrived at the scene of the accident to assess the situation and coordinate the actions of the emergency services.
Prime Minister Robert Fico stressed the need for a thorough investigation into the causes of the accident and for measures to be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Slovak railway services have temporarily suspended traffic on the affected section and organised a detour for passengers. Preliminary versions of a technical malfunction or human error are being considered as possible causes of the accident.
Local authorities are urging residents to remain calm and avoid the area of the accident so as not to interfere with the work of the rescue services.
