Safety and cleanup work underway after accident at ERM pipeline
Ludwigshafen/Kassel. One day after the accident at the ERM pipeline in Ludwigshafen-Oppau, the site is being secured and cleanup work is underway. "At this time, our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims," emphasizes Christoph von dem Bussche, Managing Director of GASCADE Gastransport GmbH, who was in Ludwigshafen in person on Friday in order to get a first-hand impression.
On October 23, 2014, a serious explosion and fire erupted during construction works on the ERM (Rhein-Main natural gas) pipeline carried out on behalf of GASCADE. One employee of the construction company died, other people were injured, some seriously. Nearby residents had to leave their homes. GASCADE is supporting those affected during the damage adjustment process.
The cause of the accident is currently being investigated. "We will closely analyze the events of the accident. We are also supporting the investigations of the authorities to the best of our abilities," says von dem Bussche. He also praised the professionalism and tireless efforts of the fire and rescue services: "Helpers were quickly at the site and immediately took every measure possible to protect the environment and people. We thank them for that."
The ERM pipeline is almost 57 kilometers long, 40 centimeters in diameter, and runs from Ludwigshafen to Karlsruhe. It transports up to 110,000 cubic meters of natural gas per hour. GASCADE has taken every measure possible to ensure a continued supply to its customers.
