Over 50 injured after express and passenger trains collide in Czechia

An express train collided with a passenger train early this morning on the line between Zliví and Dívčice in the České Budějovice region, injuring several dozen people and suspending rail operations, according to emergency services and Czech Railways. The České Budějovice hospital admitted four people with serious injuries, hospital spokeswoman Iva Nováková said.

Czech Railways said operations stopped around 6:20 a.m., with replacement bus transport in place. Rail authorities expect the line to remain closed until about 3 p.m.

The South Bohemian rescue service reported 40 lightly injured, 15 moderately hurt, and two seriously harmed on site, while additional patients were transported to hospitals in Písek, Strakonice, and Prachatice.

Photos released by police showed ambulances, fire trucks, buses and a rescue tent at the scene. According to regional authorities, 11 ground crews and a helicopter from the South Bohemian Region Medical Rescue Service responded, with firefighters triaging and treating passengers.

Two evacuation buses assisted in moving uninjured travelers. Police stated on X that all individuals were being identified and forensic investigators were examining the site.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation. The Zdopravy.cz travel-news site reported that the express train probably passed a signal prohibiting travel, but General Inspector of the Railway Inspectorate Jan Kučera told Czech Television he “would not speculate on the causes of the accident and that only the investigation would reveal it.”

He also confirmed the line is not equipped with the ETCS safety system. Police said alcohol was ruled out in both drivers through breath tests.

Firefighters reported no passengers were trapped, and cleanup will begin once investigators complete their work.

Check if your route may be affected on the updates section of the Czech Railways website or on this interactive map.