Russia: Authorities responding to a freight train derailment near Snezhetskaya on May 3

Event

Emergency response is ongoing near Snezhetskaya Train Station on May 3 after several carriages of a freight train derailed in the area late on May 2. Authorities allege an explosion on the railway tracks between Snezhetskaya and Belyye Berega caused the derailment. No injuries have been reported. Rail traffic between the city of Bryansk and Belyye Berega has been indefinitely suspended.

Heightened security and localized transportation disruptions are likely near the derailment site until clearance operations and investigations end. Snezhetskaya is approximately 9 km (5 miles) southeast of Bryansk.

Context

The May 2 derailment marks the second train derailment caused by an alleged explosion in the Bryansk Oblast since May 1 when Russian authorities stated an explosion caused a train derailment on a section of railway track between Unecha and Rassukha. Russian authorities have blamed Ukrainian saboteurs for both incidents; however, this remains unconfirmed and Kyiv is yet to comment on either incident.

Advice

Reconfirm the status of the line before travel or routing goods through the area. Arrange for alternative transportation if necessary. Allow additional time to reach destinations.