*** ----> Train derails in Saudi | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Train derails in Saudi

DammamA Saudi train derailed near the eastern city of Dammam, injuring 18 people, after flooding from heavy rains caused the rail line to erode, the Saudi Railways Organization said in a statement.

Saudi Railway said that as soon as the accident took place, an emergency situation was declared, and relevant authorities were notified according to the protocol for these situations.

The 193 passengers and 6 crew members were transferred to another train and taken to Dammam after the incident occurred at about 1:00 am, it said, adding that all injuries were minor.

Repair work has begun on the closed Riyadh-Dammam track, added the statement carried by the state news agency SPA.

The SRO has apologized to the passengers for inconveniences

Heavy rains have lashed Saudi Arabia for several days, causing severe flash floods throughout the kingdom and at least one death in southern Asir province.