At least seven killed, over 80 injured in train accident in Italy

A small regional train derailed on Monday morning in Italy's northern Alto Adige mountainous region causing at least 7 death while more than 80 people were injured, many in serious conditions.

According to the rescue operators and local authorities, the toll is likely to rise during the day.

The accident, which occurred after 9.00 a.m. local time near the town of Merano, was apparently caused by a landslide hitting the railway.

According to some witnesses, mud and debris collapsed on the train, which is now halfly covered by the fallen rocks while the remaining part is suspended upon a river. These wagons are thus in a very critical situation and relief efforts are hindered there.

The roads connecting to the area have been closed to facilitate the rescue operations. More than 200 rescuers are at work, transporting the people injured to the nearest hospitals.

Source: Xinhua