Train Collision Near Bratislava Injures Dozens in Slovakia

Major Train Accident Near Slovak Capital

A serious train collision occurred near Bratislava, Slovakia on Sunday evening, November 9, 2025, leaving approximately 30 people injured with five reported in serious condition. The accident happened around 7:31 PM local time between Pezinok and Bratislava Main Station, involving two passenger trains on one of the country's busiest commuter routes.

Details of the Collision

The collision involved a regional train traveling from Nitra to Bratislava and an express service on the same route. According to Slovak Railways director Ivan Bednárik, preliminary findings suggest the regional train may have passed a red signal and was struck from behind by the express train traveling at approximately 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph). 'The regional train probably went through a red light,' Bednárik stated during a press conference.

Police confirmed this was not a head-on collision and neither train derailed. Both train drivers tested negative for alcohol and drugs following the incident. A passenger aboard one of the trains described the moment of impact to local media: 'The train suddenly braked, then there was a loud bang. The atmosphere remained calm and train staff immediately came to check on passengers.'

Emergency Response and Medical Care

Emergency services responded immediately, with police, firefighters, and medical personnel establishing a temporary triage center at the scene. The disaster plan was activated, and eleven injured passengers were transported to hospitals in Bratislava for treatment. Medical officials confirmed that two passengers required surgery, with more operations potentially needed as medical assessments continue.

The remaining passengers were evacuated from the accident site using buses, while rail traffic in both directions was completely suspended. The affected section of track serves as a crucial commuter corridor, primarily used by students traveling to Bratislava for education.

Government Response and Investigation

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced that a full investigation has been launched into the cause of the accident. 'We must examine whether there was a technical defect or human error involved,' Fico stated. The cabinet is scheduled to hold an emergency meeting on Monday morning to address the situation.

This incident marks the second major train accident in Slovakia within a month, following a previous collision on October 13 that injured approximately 100 people. That accident was also attributed to probable human error, raising concerns about railway safety standards in the country.

Railway Safety Concerns

The repeated accidents have prompted questions about the safety of Slovakia's railway infrastructure. According to Railways of the Slovak Republic (ŽSR), the state-owned railway infrastructure company, the system has undergone significant restructuring since the dissolution of Czechoslovakia in 1993. However, recent incidents suggest potential issues with signaling systems or operational procedures.

Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok emphasized that while most injuries from Sunday's collision were minor, the frequency of such incidents requires immediate attention. The investigation will examine signal functionality, train communication systems, and adherence to safety protocols.

The collision has disrupted one of Slovakia's most important transportation corridors, affecting both domestic commuters and international travelers connecting to neighboring Austria and Hungary. Railway authorities have not provided an estimated timeline for restoring full service along the affected route.