Asbestos Town Makes Due Without Power

Article Added July 7th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

A ghost town that has suffered under the cloud of asbestos is making due without power after the government pulled the town’s electricity supply. The dwindling town now totals eight residents.

Wittenoom has seen a reduction in the population for years. After it was discovered that deadly asbestos is still accumulating in the former mining town, the government first tried to tempt, then barter with residents to leave the area. When that didn’t work, the town’s power supply was cut, leaving the remaining residents in the dark. But the eight people still living in the area are learning to live without electricity. The town is located in the Karijini National Park, a large draw for tourists.

Power was turned off on Friday at 10:05 am local time; solar and generator power was turned on by 10:10. The residents in the area had been informed that the power company would withdraw from the area due to hazardous conditions resulting from the asbestos. The mines in the area were shut down in the 1960’s and residents have been asked to leave since the 70’s. Asbestos exposure can lead to many different diseases, including emphysema, asbestosis and mesothelioma.

Article Added July 7th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story