Train derails between Bjerka and Mo i Rana, conductor dead, four hospitalized in Norway

On Thursday, a train traveling from Trondheim to Bodø derailed between Bjerka and Mo i Rana. Authorities confirmed that the train’s conductor died in the accident, while four others were sent to the hospital, though none sustained life-threatening injuries. The train veered off track towards E6, leading to the closure of both the road and the Nordlandsbanen railway for the time being.

Local police stated that assessments are necessary to ensure that the train set does not pose a risk of collapsing onto E6. Multiple organizations will begin work in the area starting Friday, with officials expecting it could take several days before the road and train line can reopen.

A new assessment is expected on Friday afternoon, according to the head of the Traffic Control Center, Siril Veiåker Nilsen. Various entities, including the Accident Investigation Board and police, are on-site to assist with evaluations.

Rain and landslides have also complicated the situation, with significant debris on the rail tracks. Harry Korslund from Bane Nor highlighted the uncertainty regarding the duration of the closure and emphasized the need to remove the train to evaluate the full extent of the damage.

Investigators from the Accident Investigation Board aim to establish a clear sequence of events and will conduct thorough examinations of both the train and the site after ensuring stability. They have also noted that while there is no suspicion of criminal activity, a standard investigation into the incident will proceed.

Efforts are underway to ensure the safe removal of the train, though it will be a challenging and time-consuming process, with reopening of the Nordlandsbanen possibly taking two to three days.