Workers for BNSF Rail were expected to clear a rail line about six miles northeast of Foxboro by Sunday evening after 34 train cars carrying taconite pellets derailed on Saturday, BNSF spokesman Steve Forsberg said.
The cars, numbered 81 through 114 out of the train's 160 cars, derailed at about5:20 p.m. Saturday, Forsberg said. No one was injured, and no hazardous materials had been spilled. The train was southbound at the time.
"Investigation is focusing on a mechanical issue with a wheel on the 81st car," Forsberg said. "We estimate the main track will reopen around 9 p.m. on Sunday."
After a derailment, workers drag the derailed cars to the side of the tracks as soon as possible so the tracks can be repaired, if necessary, Forsberg said. After clearing the track and reopening the line, workers will return to pick up the derailed or damaged cars.
BNSF typically doesn't release damage estimates to the public, Forsberg said, though any derailment that results in damages of more than $6,700 must be reported and investigated.
