Biobío railway crossings record 10 deaths in 2026

In the Biobío region of Chile, railway crossings have seen a rise in accidents, resulting in 10 deaths and 368 safety violations during the first part of 2026. The most recent fatality occurred during a pedestrian strike at the Santa Leonor crossing in Talcahuano.

In response, the Ministry of Transport, Carabineros, and EFE Sur have intensified the “Para, mira y escucha” (Stop, look, and listen) prevention campaign ahead of the upcoming Fiestas Patrias holidays. A new agreement between EFE and the Ministry of Transport will allow inspectors to use installed cameras to identify and fine individuals who violate safety protocols, such as crossing while barriers are lowered.