Spain Transport Minister to Resign After Two Deadly Rail Accidents

Spain's transport minister Oscar Puente announced he will leave his post after a train collision in October killed 69 people. This incident marks the second fatal rail disaster in the country within a single year. Puente stated he made the decision immediately after the latest crash but stayed in office to manage the immediate aftermath and prevent further accidents. He has not set a specific date for his departure.

The latest collision occurred near the town of Urda in central Spain on October 28. Several trains stopped automatically due to a failure in the signaling system. Control center operators in Madrid subsequently took over operations. They allowed a train run by state-owned Renfe to move forward while another stationary train remained on the track ahead. The resulting impact killed 69 people.

Puente explained his decision by citing the need for political consistency. He noted that a minister cannot remain in office after two severe accidents in such a short period, regardless of direct responsibility. He described his departure as an act of dignity and empathy toward the victims and their families.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez supported Puente's decision in a social media post. Sanchez described the minister as someone who offered solutions before stepping aside out of respect for the victims. He characterized Puente as a politician who brought honor to the country through his actions.

The Madrid to Seville line has been the site of both major incidents this year. In January, 46 people died when a train derailed and struck an oncoming train. Following the October crash, rail unions demanded Puente's immediate dismissal. Lawmakers also criticized him for pointing to protocol errors by control center operators as a primary cause.

Safety concerns continue to escalate on Spanish railroads. On Tuesday afternoon, three railcars collided with a locomotive in Martorell near Barcelona. The accident left one train driver injured. In response to the ongoing safety issues, Spain's railway unions have announced a strike for November 17.

The strike focuses on railway safety measures. The union action follows the two deadly accidents and the minor collision in Martorell. Puente will remain in his role until his resignation takes effect, a timeline he has yet to define.