A train carrying sulfuric acid derailed overnight near the Senegalese capital Dakar, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of area residents, firefighters said Sunday.
Three cars derailed, spilling the cargo over Dakar's Thiaroye suburb, the sources said.
Many residents inhaled dangerous fumes from the acid, which is strongly corrosive and can cause severe irritation or burns to the eye, skin or respiratory tract.
Sulfuric acid is widely used in the production of fertilizers and other goods such as car batteries -- DAKAR (AFP)
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