Sadichchha Pokharel,

Correspondent (Africa)

 

NAIROBI– A freight train has crashed into Kibera slum in Nairobi, injuring many. The train was on its way to Uganda, when it derailed and crashed into houses in Kibera, one of the biggest slums in Africa.

Several people have been buried under the wreckage. Rescue efforts are taking place but have been carried out at a very slow pace, according to residents. Due to the location and the overwhelming population of the area, it has been difficult to bring in equipment to rescue trapped people. The large crowd that has gathered around the accident site has also hampered the rescue operation.

In the past, fire brigades have struggled to enter Kibera slum during times of fire emergency due to the extremely difficult navigation in the area.

According to Transport Minister Joseph Kamau, at least six injured people have been taken to the hospital.

“We have always warned people against encroaching on the line,” Mr. Kamau said, stating that residents were warned not to build houses very close to the tracks.

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Sadichchha Pokharel

Editor (Asia: South)
Sadichchha is the South Asia section editor at The Global Panorama. She is an undergraduate student at Cardiff University School of Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies. Sadi is interested in global health and human rights issues in developing countries, particularly Africa and South Asia. She is into campaigning/social marketing and would like to make a career in the communications for development (C4D) sector. She enjoys reading, writing and travelling.