BBC News
 |
| Reports from Belarus say toxic chemicals have leaked
from one of Europe's largest chemical works, in the eastern
town of Mahilyow. |
"It is quite possible that officials will try to conceal
the real scope of the accident." Ñ Opposition radio
Opposition
radio reports said parents and kindergarten teachers in Mahilyow
had been warned to keep children indoors for several days.
The nature
of the chemicals involved is unclear.
The incident
is believed to have occurred on Thursday morning, although the
Belarus authorities made no announcement at the time.
Illness
Residents
in the area in which the plant is located are said to have felt
ill.
"The
accident was reportedly caused by irresponsibility of the personnel
who monitor control and measuring equipment, which resulted in
a leak of the poison into the atmosphere," the radio said.
The report
added that the plant had a long record of leaks.
"One
thing is certain: there is a real danger for residents of Mahilyow.
Hence, it is quite possible that officials will try to conceal
the real scope of the accident behind general statements."
The radio
said Mahilyow was known as one of Belarus's most polluted cities.
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