Massive sinkhole expands near abandoned oil well in Texas

A large sinkhole in Texas is growing rapidly, raising concerns for the surrounding area. The sinkhole, which is 200 feet wide and 40 feet deep, formed near an abandoned oil well on the Kelton family ranch in West Texas. The family has stopped using a nearby water well due to fears of contamination from crude oil. The sinkhole's growth is alarming, and it has created a difficult situation for the Kelton family. The Texas Railroad Commission, which oversees abandoned oil wells, is involved, but the Keltons' well was previously plugged, complicating the repair responsibility. There is uncertainty about who will fix the well after the plug failed. This incident highlights ongoing environmental issues in Texas, which has a long history of oil drilling. Problems such as sinkholes, leaks, and earthquakes attributed to the oil industry have been increasing. A previous sinkhole in Daisetta was 1,000 feet wide and caused significant damage. Sinkholes form when underground layers erode, often due to groundwater. In this case, the Kelton family noticed water pooling before crude oil began bubbling up. The family bought the ranch in 1963 but does not own the oil rights beneath it. Bill Kelton expressed his concern, saying the sinkhole has expanded suddenly and now has oil. The Texas Railroad Commission has visited the site, but it is unclear if they will take responsibility for repairs. The situation surrounding the oil industry continues to spark debate between environmental advocates and industry supporters.