Crude Move: Trump’s emergency order fast-track line 5 oil pipeline tunnel to cut energy dependence, encounter environmental backlash
US Army Corps of Engineers have identified Line 5 pipeline In January, under an emergency order issued by President Donald Trump, a priority project was reported as a priority project, the news agency Associated Press.
This order was part of a broad push to reduce American dependence on foreign energy. It directs federal agencies for a fast-track permit for selected energy infrastructure, including the Anbridge Tunnel Projects under Macinac’s Straits, which connects Lake Michigan and Lake Huran.
This pipeline, active since 1953, transports about 87 million liters of crude oil and natural gas fluids daily. The Nabridge argues that the proposed tunnel will protect the aging pipeline from external damage and improve security. The work will include drilling of 5.8 km tunnel under the lake at an estimated cost of $ 500 million.
But the decision to speed up has strongly criticized. Environmental groups such as Sierra clubs, Earth’s legal firms and Great Lex Business Network say the project risks one of the most important freshwater ecosystems in North America.
Mahar Sorur, director of Sierra Club’s Beyond Fossil Fuels Policy, said, “The only energy ’emergency’ is encountered to disregard Trump’s clean air and water security measures, which is to escape through dirty, dangerous fossil fuel projects.”
Tribal countries also raised objections, accusing the core of failing to consult properly or assessing risks and climate effects. Seven tribes have withdrawn in further consultation.
Meanwhile, legal hurdles remain. Michigan Attorney General and Governor are still chasing cases to cancel the ease of Nabridge. In Wisconsin, the Bad River band is fighting a separate section of the line that crosses its reservation, citing expired permits and risks.
