Coal train derails in B.C. Interior
Wednesday, August 2nd 2006
The CN main line through the Fraser Canyon is closed following the overnight derailment of a 124-car Canadian Pacific coal train on a bridge near Lytton. About 20 cars jumped the tracks across the Thompson River from the village, and 12 of them are now in the water or on the river bank.
CP spokesman Ed Greenberg said there were no injuries, and that it’s too early to say what may have caused the accident.
“It’s too early to speculate on what may have caused this incident. Our company will be working with CN and federal regulatory agencies to review what took place here so that we can look at steps for the future.”
Greenberg said CN is handling the cleanup effort and environmental assessment.
Lytton Mayor Chris O’Connor told CBC Radio he is worried about the impact of the derailment on the river-rafting industry, which attracts thousands of visitors to the area.
“The rafting industry have been told they can’t raft for a week down the Thompson because of the danger of stuff still falling off the bridge. Well, that’s going to have a big impact on the community.”
O’Conner said he’s also concerned about the impact of the spilled coal on fish in the river.
