Ceske budejovice: An express train collided with a passenger train in southern Czech Republic, injuring dozens and disrupting rail traffic across the region, authorities said.

According to Anadolu Agency, the crash occurred shortly after 6.20 am (0520GMT) near the city of Ceske Budejovice. Regional rescue officials reported that 57 people were injured, with 40 sustaining minor injuries and 13 experiencing moderate wounds. Ceske Budejovice Hospital confirmed that it had admitted four seriously injured patients, all of whom are still under treatment.

Czech Railways has suspended traffic between Ceske Budejovice and the western city of Plzen in the aftermath of the crash. The service is expected to remain halted until about 3 pm local time (1400 GMT).

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident. Firefighters have confirmed that no passengers were trapped in the wreckage and stated that cleanup operations would commence once investigators have concluded their work at the scene.