Adamuz, Spain , 19 January (H.S.): A catastrophic collision between two high-speed trains near the town of Adamuz in Córdoba province, southern Spain, on Sunday evening (January 18, 2026), claimed at least 21 lives and injured dozens more, marking one of the nation's deadliest rail disasters in recent memory.

Precise Timeline of the Midnight Mayhem

The ordeal commenced at approximately 6:40 p.m. local time (17:40 GMT), when Iryo train service 6189—carrying around 300 passengers from Málaga to Madrid—derailed shortly after departing Córdoba-Julio Anguita station. The rear carriages veered violently onto the adjacent track via a faulty railroad switch, slamming into an oncoming Renfe Alvia train bound from Madrid to Huelva, whose front carriages also derailed in the chain reaction.

RTVE journalist Salvador Jiménez, aboard the lead carriage of the Iryo train, described the jolt as akin to an earthquake, with passengers thrust into chaos amid twisted metal and piercing screams.

Rescue Amid Freezing Carnage

Andalusian emergency services reported at least 73 serious injuries, deploying five mobile intensive care units, four critical care teams, multiple ambulances, and rescue squads battling to free trapped victims from the wreckage under a freezing cold night. Rail operator Adif established victim support centers at Madrid's Atocha, Sevilla, Córdoba, Málaga, and Huelva stations, suspending all Madrid-Andalusia high-speed services through January 19.

Iryo activated emergency protocols, confirming 317 souls aboard its service, while one fatality included the Renfe train's driver.

Royal and Political Mourning

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia expressed great concern, extending heartfelt condolences to bereaved families and swift recovery wishes to survivors via the royal palace's X platform. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez coordinated national aid with rescuers, as Andalusian President Juanma Moreno pledged unwavering support.

Spain's Civil Guard investigates the switch failure, with Transport Minister Óscar Puente noting disproportionate damage to the Iryo rear and Renfe front sections.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar