Morin may not get advance data about the materials being transported through her downtown, but she has a pretty good idea of what is in the trains — thanks to Robert Bellefleur, a citizen who tracks the frequency and length of trains, as well as the materials they transport.
He said that 10 years ago, trains didn’t exceed 100 cars, but today, “they are monster trains.” Bellefleur said in recent months they have been the longest he’s ever seen in the town.Smoke rises from railway cars that were carrying crude oil after derailing in downtown Lac-Megantic, Que., on July 6, 2013. A Quebec Superior Court judge is allowing changes to the class action lawsuit in the 2013 Lac-Megantic disaster.
After the disaster, many residents no longer wanted trains to pass through downtown, so the bypass became a top priority for the municipal council at the time — and remains a priority today. But 10 years later, the bypass that was supposed to be part of the community’s healing process is still not built.Story continues below advertisement
The project has been mired in delays and met by vocal opposition from unions and neighbouring communities. Some locals have raised concerns about the environmental impact of the bypass, including on nearby wetlands and drinking water wells. Farmers, meanwhile, have accused Ottawa of not listening to their concerns and of acting in bad faith.