#24 MONTENEGRO Green Velocity - Crash the Habit: Μικρές Ιστορίες
- EERcomt
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Παρακάτω παρατίθεται μία από τις 44 ιστοριούλες που απαρτίζουν τη συλλογή μαρτυριών από ατυχήματα σε στεριά, αέρα και θάλασσα 11 νεαρών ατόμων από διάφορα μέρη της Ευρώπης και του κόσμου.
ΙΣΤΟΡΙΑ #24
ΣΙΔΗΡΟΔΡΟΜΙΚΕΣ ΓΡΑΜΜΕΣ
by Anton Gjolaj (Montenegrin/ Albanian), European Solidarity Corps; ESAI EN ROI Volunteer
ESC volunteering in teams DHIAfest campaign diffusion International Campaign
Montenegro|| Transportation Accident Stories
Supporting Organization: Mladinfo Slovensko
Railway Accident: Bioče Train Derailment (2006)
Date: January 23, 2006 Location: Bioče, near Podgorica Type of Incident: Train Derailment
Overview
The Bioče train derailment, which occurred on January 23, 2006, remains the deadliest railway disaster in Montenegro’s modern history. A passenger train traveling from Bijelo Polje to Bar derailed in the Mala Rijeka Canyon, just outside the capital city, Podgorica. The train, operated by Montenegro Railways, was carrying over 300 passengers—many of whom were students and families returning from the northern region.
The accident occurred when the train’s braking system reportedly failed as it was descending a steep incline. The rear cars of the train detached and plunged into a ravine, falling more than 100 meters down the mountain slope. The location’s remote terrain severely hindered rescue operations, and emergency teams worked through the night to recover victims and provide medical aid.
Casualties and Impact
● 47 people were killed, including 5 children
● Over 200 passengers were injured, many with life-altering conditions
● The derailment destroyed multiple carriages and severely damaged the railway infrastructure in the area
Official Investigation Findings
● The primary cause was identified as mechanical brake failure, exacerbated by poor maintenance and outdated equipment
● The train operator was later found guilty of negligence and sentenced to prison
● The accident exposed systemic issues within Montenegro Railways, including inadequate oversight and aging rolling stock
Wider Consequences
● Immediate resignation of the Minister of Transport
● Launch of a nationwide railway safety audit
● Significant investment in:
○ Brake and control system modernization
○ Training and certification for train operators and maintenance crews
○ Emergency preparedness protocols for future rail incidents
● Led to renewed pressure for Montenegro to align with European railway safety standards as part of EU integration goals
Commemoration
Each year, a memorial ceremony is held near the crash site to honor the victims. The Bioče derailment has become a symbol of both national tragedy and the need for continual investment in public transportation safety.
Comments