A massive fire at the Charlesburg landfill has been burning uncontrollably for over a week, despite relentless efforts to extinguish it. Authorities have deployed heavy machinery, including military equipment, to combat the blaze, which has caused significant distress among local residents. The fire has produced thick smoke and a pungent odor, leading to complaints of respiratory irritation and other health concerns.
Anwar Moenne, Acting Director of Public Green Spaces & Waste Management, confirmed that round-the-clock efforts are underway to bring the situation under control. “We are working tirelessly with all available resources, including military support and specialized machinery, to contain the fire,” Moenne stated. “Several hotspots remain, and we are focusing on sealing these areas to prevent further spread.”
In addition to firefighting teams, the Ministry of Public Works, Spatial Planning, and Environment (OWRO) has provided additional equipment, such as bulldozers and pickup trucks, to aid in containment efforts. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has issued warnings to residents in surrounding neighborhoods, advising them to keep windows and doors closed to minimize exposure to harmful smoke.
Moenne emphasized the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies, including Defense, Justice & Police, and OWRO, to resolve the crisis swiftly. “The situation is improving, but we are committed to making this a thing of the past as soon as possible,” he added. Despite the ongoing challenges, officials remain hopeful that the fire will be fully extinguished in the coming days.