LAC-MÉGANTIC, Quebec — Canada’s Transport Minister, Pablo Rodriguez, today released a statement as part of events marking the 11 years that have passed since Canada’s worst rail disaster, the derailment and fire in Lac-Megantic that killed 47 people and destroyed most of the community’s downtown.
“Since the tragedy on July 6, 2013, 11 years ago today, our hearts and thoughts have been with the victims and residents of Lac-Mégantic, and all others who have been affected by this tragedy in one way or another. …
“It’s been 11 years now that Lac-Mégantic has been living with the memory of this tragedy, and throughout this time, the people of Lac-Mégantic have shown strength, resilience and determination to overcome this ordeal and rebuild their lives. Their courage is an inspiration to all Canadians.
“The federal government is working diligently to strengthen rail safety and the safe transportation of dangerous goods across Canada. We are going to move the rail line out of downtown Lac-Mégantic.”
CityNews reports that Lac-Mégantic held a small ceremony on Saturday, July 6, to pay tribute to the victims. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement that day in which he said he joined residents “and all Canadians to remember those we lost. We also honour the courage and resilience of the survivors as they rebuild their lives and their community.”
Government efforts to build a 12.5-kilometer (7.8-mile) bypass removing what is now CPKC’s rail line from the center of town have advanced slowly, with the new route facing strong opposition, particularly from neighboring communities. Some work on the project began last fall, but legal challenges are ongoing and no time frame or cost estimate exists for completion of the bypass.
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