Munster, IN — Crews responding to an oil sheen discovered in a Munster stormwater catch basin last week say they have secured the source and begun cleanup efforts.
According to a statement released Sunday by the Munster Fire Department, BP response teams traced the crude oil release to an inactive pipeline near the Cobblestones neighborhood. Crews are now removing contaminated soil from the area, with work expected to continue overnight and into Monday. Officials said residents may notice construction noise and temporary lighting while excavation continues.
The release added that petroleum odors may be present in surrounding neighborhoods. As a precaution, BP has set up air monitoring at the site. Officials emphasized that while petroleum products can produce noticeable odors at very low concentrations, no elevated air readings have been detected outside the immediate excavation area.
Authorities asked the public to avoid the response zone and follow the instructions of crews on site. The fire department said it will continue to monitor the situation while BP investigates the pipeline and implements environmental safeguards.
BP stated that safety of residents, responders and the environment remains its top priority. Additional updates are expected as cleanup efforts progress.
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