BYD fined for contaminated soil at Szeged plant site

A site preparation for BYD Auto Hungary's new factory near Szeged involved spreading humus‑rich topsoil over an 11‑hectare agricultural area. Tests later revealed that about 10 % of the displaced soil contained alkybenzol residues above the legal limit, prompting the Csongrád‑Csanád County Government to order the destruction of the wheat crop – an estimated 140 tonnes – and to levy a 10 million‑forint environmental fine on the company.

Subsequent comprehensive sampling of 101 points showed that the alkybenzol concentrations fell below the 0.5 mg kg⁻¹ threshold, and authorities declared the land safe for continued farming. The company has been required to obtain prior approval and conduct proper testing before any future soil movement. Health officials say the contamination does not pose an immediate risk to nearby residents, though long‑term agricultural use may still be scrutinised.

The incident highlights regulatory enforcement of environmental permits in Hungary and underscores the economic impact on local farmers and the BYD project.