A tragic tram derailment in Milan has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left nearly 40 others injured. The incident occurred on the busy line 9 route, as the tram was navigating Viale Vittorio Veneto around 16:00 local time. Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene as the tram veered off the tracks and collided with a building, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Eyewitness Accounts of Chaos
The tram, which was heavily occupied at the time of the accident, reportedly hit a traffic light before crashing into a restaurant’s window. Witnesses recounted the terrifying moments leading up to the derailment, with one passenger stating, “I thought it was an earthquake. I was sitting down and I fell on the floor, along with the other passengers. It was terrible.” Another female passenger described how the tram’s sudden movements caused chaos, adding, “I was standing next to the driver, and they all crashed into me.”
One of the deceased, a 60-year-old man, was believed to be a pedestrian struck by the tram. The second fatality, among the injured, was a passenger. As rescue teams worked tirelessly to free individuals trapped in the wreckage, the city witnessed a significant mobilization of ambulances and emergency personnel.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the derailment, with early reports suggesting that the tram may have taken a corner too quickly. Milan’s Mayor, Giuseppe Sala, labelled the incident a “tragedy” and confirmed that investigations are ongoing. He noted the driver’s experience, stating that they had only been on duty for an hour and were not working overtime. “What is a little strange,” Sala commented, “is that there is a stop here that was skipped, which adds another element to what happened.” The possibility that the driver may have suffered a sudden medical emergency is also under consideration.
Response from Authorities and the Community
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and those affected. The transport company ATM has stated that they are “deeply shaken” by the incident, extending their thoughts to those impacted. This tragic event unfolds at a time when Milan is bustling with international visitors for Fashion Week and following the recent Winter Olympics.
The tram involved in the crash is a newly introduced bidirectional model, and authorities are likely to scrutinize its design and operational protocols as part of the investigation.
Why it Matters
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for stringent safety measures within public transportation systems, particularly in cities bustling with tourists and significant events. The loss of lives and the tragic injuries sustained in this accident highlight the fragility of urban transport safety. As investigations unfold, there will be critical lessons to learn that could prevent future tragedies, ensuring that such a devastating event does not recur in this vibrant city.
