Train derailment kills 18 in Taiwan

By Munira Abdelmenan

ANKARA (AA) - At least 18 people were killed and 187 injured when a train derailed in Taiwan on Sunday, local media reported Monday.

According to Focus Taiwan, the accident occurred when the Puyuma express train was transporting 366 passengers from New Taipei's Shulin district to Taitung, a southeastern coastal city.

The 8-wagon train derailed near Xinma Station in Yilan county on Sunday afternoon.

Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) reported that the investigation into the cause of the accident is still underway.

The Puyuma express train has resumed partial, two-way services on its single remaining track early Monday.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen visited the scene this morning and proceeded to the hospital, where survivors are getting medical attention.

On Sunday, Premier William Lai also visited the country's central disaster response center.

The leaders expressed their condolences to the families and friends of the victims.