Tragedy struck in the Brahmapuram region of Kochi in Kerala as a fire in a solid waste plant continues to burn for the fifth consecutive day. Since it was a waste plant, the plumes of smoke emanating from the fire are extremely toxic. This toxic haze of the fire is now settling over the region and is making its way to other parts of Kerala. Residents have been advised to stay in and wear masks in order to minimize its ill effects.
Brahmapuram Burning For The 5th Consecutive Day
On Thursday, the 2nd of March, a terrible fire broke out at one of the solid waste management facilities in the Kochi District in Kerala. The facility was located in the Brahmapuram region of the Kochi district. Despite the reassurance from the authorities that the situation is under control and that the fire will be extinguished soon, it has continued to burn for the 5th consecutive day.
The smoke is continuing to spread and has now reached the region of Aroor in the district of Alappuzha. This means that the people of Alappuzha are now exposed to the threat that is posed by the toxic gas.
Officials have also said that such incidents of fire breaking out around this time of the year are common owing to the rising heat. However, the opposition is claiming that the fire was intentionally started.
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20 Firefighters Under Treatment After Inhaling Toxic Smoke
Due to the gas Phosgene that is emanating from the fire, the smoke is extremely toxic and should not be inhaled, especially by children, pregnant women, and old people. As such, the government has also declared Monday as a holiday for all classes up to the seventh grade.
Since the fire broke out on Thursday, hundreds of firefighters and navy personnel have been engaged in a battle to extinguish the fire. As many as 20 firefighters have been admitted to the hospital after they were overexposed to the hazardous smoke. They complained of headaches, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.
The authorities have been giving constant reassurances that the fire is under control and that people are free to move outside as long as they’re wearing masks, however, it doesn’t seem like the fire is going to let up soon.
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Cover Image Credits: @JillsDaniel/Twitter