Environment Minister: Benzene levels in groundwater decreasing after Hustopeče accident

Environment Minister Petr Hladík reassured the public that remediation efforts are progressing following last week’s accident involving tankers filled with toxic benzene. He confirmed that the amount of benzene in the groundwater is decreasing as firefighters continue to pump out the substance. Firefighters have already captured 360 tonnes of the toxic chemical, and work is ongoing with the last tanker.

Hladík emphasized that there is no air contamination, as the area remains cordoned off. He also assured that the site will be fully decontaminated, including areas where some of the substance seeped into the soil.