Norfolk Southern Train Derails in Pennsylvania, Spilling Diesel Fuel and Plastic Pellets
Train Derailment in Pennsylvania
A Norfolk Southern train derailed in eastern Pennsylvania, causing the spillage of diesel fuel and polypropylene plastic pellets into the Lehigh River. Despite the incident, there were no injuries reported to the crew or any evacuations needed in the community, according to the Lower Saucon Township Police Department.
Emergency Response and Cleanup Efforts
Emergency personnel swiftly responded to the scene, deploying containment booms to control the oil spill. Norfolk Southern announced on social media that they would conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, with their crew and contractors committed to cleaning up the area in the coming days.
Call for Action
Ancora Holdings, a significant equity holder in Norfolk Southern, called for the immediate removal of Norfolk Southern’s CEO, Alan Shaw, following the derailment. They advocated for an orderly reconstitution of the board to address the situation effectively.
Past Incidents and Presidential Response
Last year, a train operated by Norfolk Southern Railroad derailed, resulting in a fire in East Palestine, Ohio. This incident led to widespread evacuations and prompted President Joe Biden to visit the area recently. He labeled the train derailment as “an act of greed” and urged Congress to pass legislation strengthening rail safety laws.