Readers offer advice and reactions to Hungarian disaster

The following comments reflect the views of DW-WORLD.DE readers. Not all reader comments have been published. DW-WORLD.DE reserves the right to edit for length and appropriateness of content.

Dead fish found in Hungary's Danube after toxic spill

This toxic spill is a reminder to all who benefit from industry that we must demand clean up which protects the environmental future of our children. -- Anne, Canada

It is inconceivable to have allowed such an amount of toxic waste to accumulate (near human habitation and crucial rivers, no less!). Where was the EU when prevention mattered? I do hope that all Hungarian officials will face severe penalties, including jail, for their horrible acts of neglect, abuse and murder! -- Emma, US

Please bring in the army to help. The villages downstream must be prepared to move to higher ground. A rental company of trucks could help move materials and the train system could carry the soil to be burned. GPS should be used to send information to a command center and follow the water movement with Google Earth. -- Malcolm, Canada

If Hungary is so concerned over the availability of drinkable water, why has it sold the rights to Nestle to take water from the Kali Basin by the thousands of gallons daily? This well is only 25 miles or so from the toxic sludge spill. I question any country's carelessness that is so willing to sell precious resources such as drinkable water at this time. -- Emmie, US

There is a way to manage river water flow in a way to help minimize the spread and provide pH neutralization. But I'll be needed to be heard at the highest levels. This is Europe's Deepwater Horizon, in my view. -- Vivek, India

While the results of investigation of the causes of the catastrophe are not yet known, it seem that the MAL Zrt. company must bear full responsibility for the disaster. While it is hard to say if the measures taken by Hungarian authorities have been the best possible, I am impressed by the efficiency and professionalism of Hungarian catastrophe teams. It is sad to see, however, that some actors of international media are trying to create panic rather than contribute to objective communication. -- Borisz, Hungary

Of course enough is not being done to prevent a second spill if there are fears of new toxic spill. Now we can barely hear the Strauss's Vals "The Blue Danube," next month we will hear from a metal band: “The Toxic Danube.” An apology for this industry is not enough, it must be closed or at least it has to pay all damages to this village or put it them in condition again. -- Henry, US

Compiled by Stuart Tiffen
Editor: Chuck Penfold