Train Carrying Chemicals Derailed in Ohio

What is the news about a train getting derailed in Ohio?

On 3rd February 2023, a freight train carrying chemicals and combustible items derailed and caught fire near East Palestine, Ohio, United States of America (USA). Investigators were concerned because the train was carrying vinyl chloride, a dangerous flammable gas.

Following a notice about a possible explosion, residents on both sides of the Ohio-Pennsylvania border were told to evacuate. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) examined the train and found that a wheel bearing failure was the cause of the derailment.

Has the accident caused any harm to the environment?

On 6th February 2023, authorities performed a controlled release of the dangerous chemicals by directing them into a trench and burning them. It was later discovered that some harmful chemicals were released into nearby air, soil, and water.

But, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared that no dangerous levels of pollution were found in the air in and around East Palestine. Later, the EPA said that chemicals were discovered in some tributaries of the Ohio River. Thankfully, water treatment systems will be able to remove them, and people will not be harmed.

What is the current situation over there?

On 8th February 2023, authorities declared that residents could return home after air quality samples proved pollution levels were not concerning. The train company also gave over $1.2 million to help families with evacuation costs such as hotel, travel, food, and clothing.

While no injuries or deaths have been reported as a result of the derailment, some residents have complained of dying fish and frogs in nearby rivers. Residents in the area have also reported feeling ill as a result of the incident.

How long will it take for things to return to normal?

The EPA did not say how long it would take for things to return to normal. Let us hope that things soon go back to how they were before and the residents are not harmed further.