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Malahat tanker crash a rail-value reminder

Re: Rail transportation thriving in many other countries, Energy Matters, April 16

To the Editor,

Ian Gartshore’s comment (Rail transportation thriving in many other countries, Energy Matters, April 16) that industrialized countries are investing heavily in rail is so timely.

That same day, a tanker truck flipped on the Malahat, spilling some 30,000 liters of fuel.  What a miracle no one was killed.

The 20 hour tie-up is a reminder that the Island railway is vital.

I was caught up in it and reminded that thousands of others will be in favour of keeping the railway open so that gasoline, or other dangerous cargo, at some future time, can be transported on the Island by rail.

On the other hand, if the Island Highway became impassable, at least people could travel by rail.

Joel Rosenau

Nanaimo