At least 43 people have died and dozens more are injured after two trains collided head-on near the Greek city of Larissa just before midnight Tuesday (Greece time).
Several carriages came close to complete destruction owing to the force of the collision, the aftermath of which has produced shocking scenes.
Greek authorities have declared a three-day period of mourning, with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis promising a thorough and independent investigation into the tragedy’s cause.
An outpouring of grief and condolences have flowed to those affected by the disaster, which local media is calling the worst “train accident that Greece has even known.”
The Honourable David Hurley, Governor-General of Australia addressed the President of the Hellenic Republic, Ms Aikaterini Sakellaropoulou, in a letter conveying sympathy on behalf of the Australian people.
“I express my deepest condolences to you and the people of Greece in light of the tragic train accident that occurred in Larissa on Tuesday night. With a large Greek diaspora community in Australia, I know that this will touch many people’s lives and the impact will be significant.”
“On behalf of the Australian Government and people, I wish to express my deepest sympathy for those affected by these events. Our thoughts are with all the people of Greece at this difficult time.”
Neos Kosmos has received letters of condolence from a number of Greek Australian institutions expressing heartfelt sympathy from members of the diaspora in Australia.
His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia said he was “deeply shocked by the tragic train accident that occurred in Greece,” in a message delivered regarding the catastrophe.
“All Greeks of Australia as a whole mourn and suffer together with the Greek people, who are experiencing moments of unspeakable pain and suffering.”
“We pray with all our hearts for our fellow citizens who are injured, that their health may quickly be restored and that they will fully recover as soon as possible,” he continued.
“May God give rest the souls of the victims, and for all those who may be mourning the loss of their relatives and loved ones, may they receive comfort and strength from above.
The Greek Community of Melbourne released the following statement in light of the devastating event.
“The Greek Community of Melbourne would like to express our heartfelt condolences to all the families and victims affected. Our thoughts are with you all.”
The Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales expressed their “deep sorrow and sympathy to the Greek people for the unspeakable tragedy they are experiencing.”
“It was announced that it was human error, but who will be able to ease the pain of so many families who lost their loved ones and mostly young people, mainly students returning to Thessaloniki,” the statement continued.
And called on the Greek Government to take all necessary measures so that such a tragedy is never again repeated.
The disaster has shaken the nation to its core, whose public is now demanding answers as to how such a calamity came to pass.
