Reports of hazardous substance leaks from freight trains soar tenfold

Leaks of dangerous substances from freight trains have surged in recent years. After 26 incidents were recorded by the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) in 2023 and 52 in 2024, the number jumped dramatically in 2025, when inspectors detected more than 400 leaks.

The inspectorate says there is no straightforward explanation for the surge. Increased inspections may partly account for the rise after an uptick became visible, but reports of leaks from tank wagons have also jumped dramatically, climbing from 57 in 2023 to 506 last year.

According to the ILT, many leaks are caused by damaged parts. “This includes faulty side valves, bottom valves, manholes, and vapor return systems,” the agency said. In some cases, companies’ procedures for spotting these issues before they occur are insufficient.

Leaking substances aren’t always due to mechanical failures; sometimes, just a few drops remain on wagons during loading or unloading. “Both situations present a risk to humans and the environment and need to be avoided,” the ILT emphasized.

Fuel oil topped the list of leaked substances, accounting for 146 cases. Ethanol, methanol, and jet fuel were also frequently involved. More than 100 incidents fell into a catch-all category called “environmentally hazardous liquid.” The totals also include leaks from stationary tank containers, not just those on wheels.

The ILT cannot estimate the typical amounts released, as it varies depending on factors such as whether the substance is volatile or thick, and “whether a train is on a short journey or crossing half of Europe.”

It is evident that the volumes involved can be substantial. Arjan Grob, the ILT’s coordinator for hazardous substances, warned: “Even a few drops can escalate into a costly cleanup operation or have lasting effects on the environment.”