NJ Emergency Officials Want More Info On Train Oil Shipments
HACKENSACK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Bergen County fire departments and local leaders met Sunday to discuss how to respond if a train carrying highly flammable crude oil happened to derail and catch fire in residential communities.
However, acquiring adequate data related to the oil shipments has been problematic, WCBS 880's Paul Murnane reported.
CSX has complied with a federal order to provide information, but one emergency planner told WCBS 880 that local departments are frustrated about a lack of specifics.
The Association of American Railroads said it's hard to produce town-by-town timing on shipments in an industry that is driven by day-to-day market conditions. The railroads also are reluctant to share information with their business rivals.
There are also security concerns.
Sean Dixon, staff attorney for the environmental group Riverkeeper, said the feds have acquired information only on the transportation of Bakken crude.
"So right off the bat, the only information that's being shared is the most minimal information," he said.
The industry said 15 to 30 oil trains travel the tracks through Bergen Country every week.
CSX, which has provided training and other resources to first responders, does not expect an immediate impact from plunging oil prices.
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