Authorities in Czech’s Olomouc Region have declared a state of emergency after last month’s train derailment that caused what the government calls the world’s largest benzene contamination of its kind.
The crash on February 28 in Hustopeče nad Bečvou spilled 350 tons of benzene into groundwater. Regional governor Ladislav Okleštěk enacted emergency measures on Friday to speed up cleanup efforts and prevent pollution of the Bečva River.
Contamination was detected in a well near the site, and a local fishing group reported high benzene levels in a nearby reservoir. Authorities are building a seven-meter-deep metal barrier to contain the spill.
The Ministry of the Environment had urged an earlier response, but Okleštěk delayed action until securing government funding. Officials estimate damages at 1 billion CZK ($42 million).
Benzene, a carcinogen used in plastics, dyes, and pesticides, poses serious health risks. Cleanup operations are ongoing.
Contamination was detected in a well near the site, and a local fishing group reported high benzene levels in a nearby reservoir. Authorities are building a seven-meter-deep metal barrier to contain the spill.
The Ministry of the Environment had urged an earlier response, but Okleštěk delayed action until securing government funding. Officials estimate damages at 1 billion CZK ($42 million).
Benzene, a carcinogen used in plastics, dyes, and pesticides, poses serious health risks. Cleanup operations are ongoing.
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