Freight train derails in Russia’s Perm region after suspected soil erosion UPDATED / VIDEO

Two recovery trains, specialised machinery, and 270 railway workers have been deployed to clear the aftermath of a freight train derailment on the Kishert–Shumkovo section of the Sverdlovsk Railway, the operator's press service announced.

The derailment, involving six wagons and a section of the freight train's locomotive, occurred on July 15 at 23:31 Moscow time. No injuries were reported, and there is no threat to the environment.

"Two recovery trains, automotive/tractor equipment, and specialised track repair equipment are involved in clearing the aftermath of the incident. There are 270 railway workers operating on-site. According to updated information, the derailment occurred as a result of an anomalous amount of precipitation and deformation of the embankment. 200 meters of track and catenary network supports were damaged," the Sverdlovsk Railway press service said in a statement.

According to the Federal Passenger Company, nine passenger trains are currently delayed as a result of the incident.

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A freight train derailment has occurred in Russia’s Perm Region after apparent infrastructure damage caused by soil erosion, authorities said on July 16.

According to the Ural Transport Prosecutor’s Office, a locomotive and five open-top wagons left the tracks on the Kishert–Shumkovo stretch of the Sverdlovsk Railway. The train was carrying alumina at the time of the incident.

Preliminary findings indicate that the derailment was likely triggered by a washout of the track bed, undermining the stability of the rail infrastructure.

No injuries have been reported. However, rail traffic in both directions along the affected section has been suspended as emergency repair and recovery operations continue.

Officials have not yet provided a timeline for the restoration of normal service.

By Tamilla Hasanova