Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand says seven Canadians were injured Dec. 30 in a train collision near Machu Picchu, Peru.
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) is providing “consular assistance” and is in touch with local authorities in the aftermath of the deadly incident, according to Anand.
The crash occurred around 1:20 p.m. EST on Dec. 30, when an Inca Rail train collided with a PeruRail train around the archaeological site of Qoriwayrachina near Machu Picchu.
The crash claimed the life of a railroad worker, according to Capt. Jhonathan Castillo Gonzalez of the Cuzco police department in Peru. At least 40 individuals have also been reported as injured in the collision, including the seven Canadians.
Gonzalez added that all trains on the line between Machu Picchu and Cuzco were suspended in the aftermath of the incident.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased Inca Rail worker. We are with you at this time of profound grief.”
No further details have been released about the possible cause or causes of the collision.
GAC has not released the identities of any of the Canadians injured in the collision, nor has it provided any further information on the severity of the injuries.
Machu Picchu is a historical site that was built by the Incan people in the 15th century. It receives around 1.5 million visitors each year, the majority of whom arrive by train to a nearby town before accessing the site.
