42 injured after two trains collide in Czech Republic

At least 42 people were injured after an express train collided with a passenger train in southern Czech Republic on Thursday morning, as per reports.

The crash occurred near the city of České Budějovice around 6.20 am (local time). According to regional rescue services, two people sustained serious injuries, while around 40 others suffered minor wounds.

Czech Police said on  X that forensic teams had completed an initial inspection of the crash site. Preliminary estimates place the damage to both trains at approximately 150 million Czech crowns. Authorities have reportedly opened criminal proceedings on suspicion of general endangerment due to negligence.

Emergency teams were deployed in large numbers, with crisis intervention units assisting the injured. Police commanders coordinated rescue operations at the site, where dozens of passengers required medical attention.

A crisis hotline (974 222 158) has been activated to provide psychological support and information for those affected and their families.

Rail traffic between České Budějovice and Plzeň has been suspended and is expected to remain disrupted until the afternoon, officials added.