A freight train derailment in eastern Czech Republic on Friday sparked a massive chemical fire, sending thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the sky. The incident occurred near the train station in the town of Hustopeče nad Bečvou around noon local time (1100 GMT), after several tank wagons carrying carcinogenic benzene were damaged and ignited, reported news agency AP.
Firefighters rushed to the scene, battling the blaze as it consumed 15 of the 17 tankers. Each tanker carried approximately 60 metric tons (66 tons) of benzene, a highly flammable substance used in chemical manufacturing. In an effort to contain the fire, emergency crews deployed a helicopter while reinforcements from neighboring Slovakia were en route to assist in the operation.
Despite the severity of the fire, no injury was reported. Authorities said an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the derailment. The nearest residential area, located about 500 metres away, remains unaffected by the smoke, though residents were urged to take precautions.
Advisory Issued For Locals After Chemical Fire
Officials advised locals in Hustopeče nad Bečvou and surrounding towns to keep their windows closed and stay indoors as a safety measure.
Initial reports mistakenly identified the chemical as benzol, but officials later confirmed it was benzene, AP said. Fortunately, air quality tests have not detected dangerous levels of toxic substances exceeding safety limits.
The dramatic scene, with thick smoke visible from miles away, has raised concerns about potential environmental and health risks. As emergency teams work to fully contain the fire, investigators are focused on determining what caused the derailment and ensuring such an incident does not happen again.
