Rail line cleanup in Winnipeg creates odour, worry

Residents of the Lord Roberts neighbourhood reported a strange smell from a nearby rail yard that made schools consider sending students home early.

People living in Lord Roberts and Riverview areas of Winnipeg have been experiencing a strange smell in their neighbourhoods, according to Coun. Sherri Rollins (Fort Rouge).

In a statement from Rollins, she said the scent is so bad it has prompted schools to consider evacuation measures and send precautionary letters home. It appears the smell is coming from the nearby CN Rail Fort Rouge rail yard.

A spokesperson for CN Rail told CTV News that work is ongoing to clean up the site following a derailment last month and that undiluted bitumen is being removed from a rail car.

“Over the coming days, neighbours may see steam or notice unusual odours as staff empty and clean the remaining railcars prior to their safe removal and transport,” reads the statement in part.

“There is no threat to public safety and no dangerous goods are involved. Environmental protection measures, including air quality monitoring, remain in place as a precaution.”

Rollins said the incident underscores the need for stronger and more immediate public health notifications. She said people deserve prompt, accurate information so they can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary anxiety.