People who live near the crash site in the US state of Ohio complain of health problems ranging from headaches to skin rashes. They feel let down by the authorities.
After a freight train loaded with chemicals derails in Ohio, residents are concerned about the health consequences. The director of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tried to calm people down during a visit to the site. “We are helping local authorities determine the impact of the accident and ensure there is no impact on the drinking water supply,” said Michael Regan.
Both water and air are regularly tested for dangerous pollutants. “This incident understandably shook this community to its core.” The train derailed and caught fire in the East Palestinian community in early February. A huge cloud of smoke hung over the site near the Pennsylvania state line. He was temporarily evacuated.
A cleanup crew works in a stream in eastern Palestine on February 16, 2023. APA/Getty Images via AFP/GETTY IOhio officials say “no traces of chemicals detected”
Since the accident, residents have complained of health problems – including headaches, itchy eyes and rashes. They accuse policy authorities of incomplete information and feel let down. The railway company “Norfolk Southern” was also criticized and did not attend a meeting with residents.
EPA director Regan emphasized that no traces of chemicals such as vinyl chloride or hydrogen chloride were found during the examination of 480 homes. “The health and safety of the public is our top priority,” said White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre. Local authorities now fear that the rain could wash pollutants into local streams and rivers. At the same time, the state civil protection tried to appease the residents. Odors could be perceived. This is because some of the released pollutants have a low odor threshold. These pollutants can therefore be smelled at levels well below what is considered hazardous.
February 4 file photo of East Palestine – the day after the accident. APA/AFP/DUSTIN FRANZ(APA/dpa)