“There is no danger to the public,” stated Michelle Hannan, a media relations advisor with CN Rail, following a train derailment in St. Catharines, Ontario, on Monday morning.
The incident involved a CN Railway train that was carrying polyethylene, a polymer commonly used in household plastics. Several railcars derailed, resulting in a spill from one of them.
Authorities quickly responded to the situation, confirming that no injuries have been reported. The derailment initially blocked traffic in the area, but crews have since cleared the Glendale Avenue crossing, allowing vehicles to flow again.
However, the derailment has left a bridge on the Welland Canal inoperable, disrupting shipping traffic in the region. Additionally, Lakeshore West GO trains are currently unable to stop at St. Catharines and Niagara Falls GO stations due to the incident.
“CN would like to apologize for the inconveniences caused by this incident,” Hannan added, highlighting the company’s commitment to addressing the fallout from the derailment.
The cause of the derailment is still under investigation, with details remaining unconfirmed. Local authorities, including the Niagara Regional Police and the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corp., are involved in the ongoing response efforts.
As the situation develops, further updates are expected from CN Rail and local officials regarding the investigation and any potential impacts on transportation in the area.