Eight K!lled As Train Collides With Pipeline Company Staff Bus

At least eight people lost their lives and several others were injured on Thursday afternoon when a Kenya Railways train collided with a Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) staff bus at a railway crossing near Morendat Farm in Naivasha.

According to statements from both KPC and Kenya Railways, emergency teams were immediately deployed to the scene to evacuate the injured and begin investigations into the cause of the accident. 

The crash happened at a railway level crossing adjacent to KPC’s Morendat Training and Conference Centre, according to The Eastleigh Voice.

It was gathered that the bus, ferrying employees home after their morning shift, was struck by the train as it attempted to cross the tracks. 

The impact left the vehicle severely damaged, with rescue workers battling to free trapped passengers.

Meanwhile, KPC Managing Director Joe Sang said the company’s emergency response units were activated without delay, working alongside local authorities to rush the injured to hospitals in Naivasha. 

He added that air evacuations were arranged for those in critical condition to receive specialised treatment.

Sang said, "We are working closely with the medical teams and local authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible care and to facilitate airlifts for the critically injured.

“At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with our colleagues and their families.”

Meanwhile, first responders from KPC, working alongside local emergency services, spearheaded the rescue operation, providing initial medical care to victims and coordinating their evacuation from the crash site.

Sang stated that the company’s top priority remains the welfare of its affected employees and their families. He noted that KPC has activated its internal welfare and psychosocial support teams to help staff manage the trauma resulting from the incident.

“We assure the public and all our stakeholders that we are doing everything possible to manage the situation and provide the necessary support to those affected.

“We will continue to share updates as more details become available," he said.

The exact cause of the crash has yet to be determined, but reports indicate that heavy rainfall and foggy conditions at the time may have reduced visibility and contributed to the accident.

In a statement, Kenya Railways said its emergency response team was swiftly deployed and worked with police officers to evacuate the injured.

The corporation also urged the public to exercise caution at railway crossings to help prevent similar tragedies.

“We wish to extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved and wish a quick recovery to the injured. Motorists and the general public are advised to take caution when crossing the railway line at level crossings to avoid collision with approaching trains."

However, both KPC and Kenya Railways have pledged to continue supporting the affected individuals and families while investigations into the cause of the de@dly crash remain ongoing.