Avalanche derails Swiss train: 80 passengers on board; casualties feared

A passenger train carrying around 80 people derailed early on Monday in southern Switzerland after an avalanche struck near the village of Goppenstein, authorities said. Police confirmed that the derailment occurred at 7.00 am local time and siad that at least five people were injured. By 10.00 am, 30 passengers had been evacuated from the affected carriages, while ambulances and rescue helicopters continued operations, according to news agency AFP. “The train derailed due to an avalanche that came down in the Stockgraben area,” a spokesperson for Swiss rail company BLS told 20 Minuten.According to The Independent, multiple casualties are feared as rescue teams raced to the scene.The train, which left Spiez at 6.12 am, was southbound towards Brig when the incident occurred. As a result, rail traffic between Goppenstein and Brig has been suspended, with services expected to remain halted at least until Tuesday, BLS said.Switzerland’s rail network is known for its extensive coverage and punctuality, connecting cities, towns and remote villages. Rail enthusiasts from across the world travel the scenic routes, some of which include steep climbs.Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and provide medical care to those affected. In 2023, a separate storm near Bern caused two train derailments within 20 minutes, leaving 15 people injured.This is a developing story...