In brief
A passenger train that was traveling between Rouen and Caen derailed near the commune of Cléon, northern France, injuring at least 44 people, including one who was airlifted to hospital in critical condition. 180 passengers were aboard the train when the derailment occurred, prompting over 140 emergency teams to the scene. Photographs suggest that three carriages overturned, and the cause is still under investigation. The SNCF has announced significant service disruptions and will provide replacement buses while authorities advise the public to avoid the area.
At least 44 people have been injured, including one seriously, after a passenger train derailed in northern France, local officials said.
An 18‑year‑old woman was airlifted in critical condition by helicopter to hospital.
Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said 180 passengers were on board the train that was operating between Rouen and Caen in Normandy.
He added that 140 firefighters and other emergency teams were being deployed to the scene of the crash on Friday evening near the commune of Cléon, just south of Rouen.
The cause of the derailment was not immediately known.
The local authorities activated a mass‑casualty response plan after the crash shortly before 20:00 local time (18:00 GMT).
Photographs later emerged showing passengers leaving the crashed train, with French media reporting that three carriages overturned.
France's state‑owned railway operator SNCF reported "significant disruptions" on its routes in the area. It said replacement buses would be provided.
The authorities advised the public to avoid the area. The incident underscores the importance of investing in climate‑resilient rail infrastructure capable of withstanding the increasing environmental stresses that can compromise track stability.
