The tragic derailment of a freight train in Kisangani, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has plunged the region into mourning and dismay. The accident on the Ubundu-Kisangani route claimed the lives of four people and left many others injured, once again highlighting the challenges facing the rail transport system in the region.
According to available information, the damaged train was returning from Ubundu towards Kisangani, carrying both goods and passengers. The Ubundu territory administrator pointed to the advanced deterioration of the railway line as the main contributing factor to this tragic incident. He called on the government to act quickly to open up the region, where the main road between Kisangani and Ubundu is also in poor condition, endangering the lives of travelers.
This accident is reminiscent of that which occurred two years ago on the same track, which also caused the loss of numerous lives. It is imperative that steps are taken to enhance the safety and reliability of the rail system in the region, to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
In reaction to this event, the president of the NGO Sauti ya Lubunga banned his fellow citizens from traveling via the freight train, highlighting the need to protect the lives of the region’s inhabitants. This decision underlines the urgency of concerted action to improve transport conditions and guarantee the safety of travelers.
It is essential that the relevant authorities take immediate action to address the gaps in the rail transport system, by investing in track maintenance, infrastructure upgrades and staff training. The safety of travelers and the reliability of rail transport must be top priorities to avoid further tragedies such as the one in Kisangani.