Train Kills 89 Sheep in Portugal; Shepherds Face Huge Compensation Bill

In a bizarre turn of events, a train in Portugal has killed 89 sheep, and now a state-run infrastructure company is demanding substantial compensation from the shepherds whose flock was lost. The incident, which occurred on December 28 in the Montemor-o-Velho district, north of Lisbon, has left the shepherds facing a bill of 26,400 euros.

The state-owned company, 'Infraestruturas de Portugal,' claims the compensation is for damages to the train and the considerable delays caused to rail traffic. According to reports, the train driver saw the flock on the tracks shortly after leaving a curve. Despite an emergency brake application, the collision could not be averted, and the train came to a halt approximately 540 meters past the impact.

Of the 89 sheep killed, 65 belonged to one shepherd and 24 to another. The accident had significant repercussions on train services, with six trains canceled entirely, two partially affected, and 36 services delayed by a total of 580 minutes. The company's demand for compensation highlights the financial impact of such incidents on rail operations.

The shepherds, however, are contesting the demand. Their lawyer, Vítor Gaspar, stated that the event was an accident without intentional wrongdoing. He argued that such incidents are an inherent risk associated with rail transport and vowed to do everything possible to prevent the shepherds from bearing the cost of the damages. The case raises questions about liability and risk allocation in accidents involving livestock and public transportation.

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Such incidents are part of the general risk of rail traffic.