On Thursday, November 20, 2025, an express train collided with another passenger train in the southern Czech Republic, specifically near the city of Ceske Budejovice. The incident occurred at approximately 6:20 a.m., resulting in a significant emergency response.
According to the regional rescue service, a total of 57 individuals sustained injuries, with most being classified as light. However, two people were reported to have serious injuries. Subsequently, a hospital in Ceske Budejovice confirmed that five of the admitted patients were in serious condition, indicating the potential for complications arising from the accident.
As a direct consequence of the collision, train traffic between Ceske Budejovice and the city of Plzen was brought to a standstill. Authorities anticipated that services would not resume until the afternoon, causing significant delays and disruption for travelers in the area.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by the authorities, who are working to gather further details regarding how such a serious incident occurred on the rail line between Zliv and Dívcice. Investigators aim to ensure that an accurate assessment is made, potentially to prevent future occurrences of similar accidents.
The impact of this train collision highlights the ongoing concerns over rail safety and the challenges faced by passenger rail services. As emergency services continue to address the needs of the injured and ensure the safety of the public, the aftermath of the collision necessitates thorough scrutiny into the circumstances leading to the incident.
This incident adds to the broader context of railway safety across Europe, where officials are increasingly tasked with improving infrastructure and protocols to mitigate risks associated with train travel. In the coming days, further updates are expected as the situation develops and more information becomes available about the crash and its causes.
Rescue operations have been underway since the early hours following the incident, with teams mobilized to assess the scene, provide medical treatment to the injured, and manage the disruption to rail services. Passengers previously scheduled for trains along the affected routes have been advised to seek alternative travel arrangements.
