Diamo launches second phase of benzene cleanup in Hustopeče nad Bečvou

The state enterprise Diamo has initiated the second phase of remediation following last year's train derailment involving benzene in Hustopeče nad Bečvou. The project, valued at 316.6 million CZK, was awarded to the company Dekonta.

The cleanup operations are expected to last 17 months. To date, approximately 182 tons of benzene have been removed from the contaminated area. Current efforts include pumping contaminated groundwater through activated carbon filters and methods aimed at breaking down soil pollution. Future steps involve excavating contaminated soil and transporting it via rail for processing.

A protective slurry wall is currently in place to prevent the spread of contamination toward local gravel pits and the Bečva River. David Petr, director of the Olomouc regional inspectorate of the Czech Environmental Inspectorate, described this phase as a crucial step in removing residual contamination and preventing further migration of the substance.