Czech officials declared a state of emergency in Hustopeče nad Bečvou due to toxic benzene contamination from a train crash on February 28. Governor Ladislav Okleštěk emphasized the need for urgent remediation efforts as the nearby lake was contaminated. The emergency grants local authorities special powers to manage the crisis, including construction work and restricting access to affected areas. Environment Minister Petr Hladik highlighted the rapid deterioration of the situation, with benzene already affecting water sources. Remediation efforts are underway, including the installation of Larsen walls to contain the spread of benzene. The incident, caused by a freight train derailment, resulted in significant benzene leakage and expected damages of CZK 1 billion. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)