Passengers aboard a German high-speed ICE train were stranded for more than six hours in a tunnel near Vienna following a technical malfunction. The incident, which caused significant disruption, resulted in the release of the trapped travelers after emergency services intervened.
The train, reported to be traveling from Munich to Budapest, became stuck approximately 12 miles north of Vienna. Emergency responders, including fire crews and local police, were on the scene within minutes of the initial report. The situation was complicated by the remote location and limited accessibility to the tunnel, which delayed the arrival of additional assistance.
Authorities have confirmed that the train’s automatic braking system was activated, preventing further movement. The cause of the malfunction, however, is currently under investigation. Initial reports suggest that the incident could be linked to a power failure or mechanical fault within the train’s systems. Passengers were reportedly kept calm by first responders who provided blankets, food, and water during the extended wait.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and reliability of high-speed rail networks in Europe. Transportation officials are urging passengers to continue using rail services, emphasizing that such incidents are rare and unlikely to affect overall service quality. However, the event has prompted calls for increased inspection and maintenance of rail infrastructure, particularly in areas where such malfunctions could pose a risk to travelers.