Kerala: Kochi, Kerala, has become a “gas chamber” a week after a large fire broke out at a waste management facility in the city’s Brahmapuram neighbourhood.
Though firefighters managed to douse the blaze on the second day, long columns of thick, black smoke continued to seep into the surrounding areas, blanketing them.
Residents have complained of breathing problems as the smoke from plastic, metal and other burnt objects float towards colonies in the city. Many have reported burning sensation in the eyes and throat.
The Kerala government has asked people to use N95 mask while going out. People have been asked to avoid jogging outdoors till the situation stabilizes. The district medical officer has set up a 24×7 control room. All schools and colleges in Kochi and some in neighbouring Ernakulam have been shut.
In Kochi, the situation resembles that of a COVID-19 lockdown. There are few people out on the roads. Those seen outside have masked up. Children and the elderly are not stepping out.
At least 30 teams of firefighters and navy choppers were involved in trying to put out the fire, which has ignited large mounds of garbage including plastic, metal and rubber, releasing toxic smoke.
The Kerala High Court has slammed the Kochi municipal body, saying the city has become a gas chamber. It sought a report on what caused the fire and an action plan. The civic body said they are still investigating the cause of the fire.
A minimum of 50,000 tonnes of trash burned. According to fire department representatives, they have been able to contain the smoke coming from 70% of the affected area. The remaining 30%, where burning plastic garbage is a major issue, is being worked on to fully reduce smoke.
The fire, which sparked sizable mounds of trash including plastic, metal, and rubber and released hazardous fumes, was being fought by at least 30 teams of firemen and navy helicopters.
Of Kerala’s 14 districts, Brahmapuram near Kochi is the only significant centralised solid waste management facility.
