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The scene in the aftermath of a fire on a freight train carrying diesel fuel at Llangennech, near Llanelli, in South Wales, August 27, 2020
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TWO rail companies are being sued for more than £5 million, it emerged today, after a fuel spill caused by a train derailment in Wales.
Network Rail filed a legal claim against DB Cargo UK and Touax Rail this month over the derailment near Llangennech, Carmarthenshire, in August 2020.
Ten wagons of the 25-wagon train derailed, which led to the spillage of 446,000 litres of fuel and the subsequent blaze led to 300 people being evacuated.
There were no injuries in the incident, but 116,000 litres of fuel ignited while 330,000 litres drained into surrounding wetlands.
The wetlands form part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation.
Network Rail claimed that the derailment occurred because the wagon had “not been maintained with reasonable care” and is seeking damages for negligence.
Rail Accident Investigation Branch investigators said the derailment was caused by a set of wheels on one of the wagons locking, likely the result of a brake defect after “inadequate maintenance practices.”
Network Rail owns, operates, maintains and develops Britain’s railways.
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