Court Overturns Rule Allowing LNG by Rail Amid Safety Concerns

A federal appeals court struck down a rule permitting LNG by rail, citing safety and environmental risks. The decision emphasizes prioritizing community safety over industrial convenience. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Why LNG by Rail Faces Safety Concerns?

A federal court invalidated the 2020 Department of Transportation rule for LNG by rail. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) failed to prepare a required environmental impact report, violating federal protocols.

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Judge Florence Pan noted the absence of critical safety regulations, including train speed limits and tank car caps. One company proposed LNG trains with 80 cars, raising fears of catastrophic accidents. Environmental groups compared the energy in 22 LNG cars to the Hiroshima atomic bomb.

Suspension of LNG by Rail Rule

Under the Biden administration, the rule permitting LNG by rail remains suspended due to climate policy reviews. PHMSA delayed implementation until June 30, 2025, or until revisions are finalized. No LNG shipments have occurred under this regulation.

Environmental advocates applauded the court’s decision. Bradley Marshall, attorney for Earthjustice, called the ruling a victory for community safety. Emily Jeffers from the Center for Biological Diversity labeled the rule a significant public risk.

This case underscores the need for thorough environmental analysis and stricter safety standards before authorizing LNG rail transport. Communities near rail lines must be protected from potential disasters.

Source: www.trains.com

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