Train derailment in northern Montana caused a freight spill along a major east-west railroad corridor on July 21, with eleven cars derailing near the Milk River east of the small town of Havre. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in the incident. The cause of the derailment is currently under investigation, as per Lena Kent, a spokesperson for BNSF Railway.
This recent accident comes on the heels of another railway disaster in southern Montana, where a bridge collapse led to oil product tank cars plunging into the Yellowstone River, resulting in the spillage of molten sulfur and up to 250 tons of hot asphalt. Such incidents have raised concerns about railway safety and prompted discussions about the need for more stringent regulations and monitoring of tracks and equipment.
Among the derailed cars in the northern Montana accident, one was carrying hazardous materials in the form of paint thinner. Fortunately, the hazardous material car remained intact and did not spill, thanks to proper safety measures. However, other cars carrying consumer goods, including cake mixes, napkins, and carrots, broke open during the derailment, causing the freight to spill.
Amanda Frickel from Hill County Disaster and Emergency Services confirmed the extent of the spill and ongoing efforts to clean up and repair the area. While the line has been reopened for service, authorities are keen on ensuring the safety and stability of the railway corridor.
Railroads, including BNSF Railway, have faced mounting pressure from lawmakers and unions to address safety lapses that are often attributed to track and equipment conditions. The industry is largely self-regulating, but incidents like this have put a spotlight on the need for stricter safety protocols and inspections.
A comparable incident occurred in 2021 when an Amtrak train derailed about 50 miles west of the recent freight train accident. That tragedy resulted in three fatalities and dozens of injuries. Investigators later revealed that the track owned by BNSF was bent along a curve at the site of the Amtrak derailment, and the issue worsened as freight trains passed through the area before the crash.
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