Ohio train derailment: Norfolk Southern ordered to pay for clean-up costs
Environment,Ohio Train Crash,Norfolk Southern
US authorities have said Norfolk Southern, whose toxin-laden train derailed in an Ohio town, must pay for the clean-up or face tough penalties.
The train, which derailed in East Palestine on 3 February, was carrying vinyl chloride and other potentially hazardous substances.
Norfolk Southern is now facing multiple lawsuits filed on behalf of residents, many of whom were forced to evacuate their homes.
It has apologised for the incident.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has the power to fine or sanction firms over environmental concerns, said Norfolk Southern would "pay for cleaning up the mess they created and for the trauma they've inflicted on this community".
Speaking at a news conference in East Palestine, the head of the EPA Michael Regan said the company would have to find and clean contaminated soil and water supplies and pay back the EPA for its own cleaning efforts, provide information online for residents and take part in public meetings at the EPA's request.
