Machu Picchu train crash leaves one dead and dozens injured

A train driver was killed and at least 40 people were injured in a head-on rail collision near Machu Picchu, Peru’s most popular tourist attraction.

Two trains collided on the single track heading to the ancient Inca city on Tuesday, according to a statement from the local government.

It was stated that 20 ambulances were dispatched to the scene and the injured were transferred to health facilities in the nearby city of Cusco.

The US embassy in Peru said US citizens were injured in the crash, but police have not yet confirmed the identity of anyone involved.

Local media outlet Peru21 reported that “hundreds” of tourists were at the scene waiting for evacuation, which was “hampered” by the difficult terrain around the crash site.

A health official speaking to the Reuters news agency said that at least 20 of the injured were in serious condition.

The collision occurred on the road connecting Ollantaytambo Station and Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu. The journey between the two stations usually takes about 90 minutes.

The two trains involved in the accident were operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail respectively.

“We deeply regret what happened,” PeruRail said in a statement, adding that its staff “immediately” provided first aid to the train driver, train conductor and passengers involved.

The cause of the accident is not yet clear.

The accident occurred amid an ongoing dispute between transport providers to the Unesco world heritage site; Local communities were unhappy with what they said was an insufficiently clear tendering process.

Ticket prices for trains and buses that take tourists to the ancient city can be quite lucrative due to their high and limited accessibility.

Built in the 15th century in the Peruvian Andes, the Inca city of Machu Picchu is one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World.

Visitors can take a series of trains and buses to reach the site or hike along the Inca trail with a registered tour operator.

In 2011, authorities imposed a daily limit on visitors to protect and preserve the area, but concerns about overtourism remain.