Garbage Fire in Nagpur’s Bhandewadi Dump Yard Continues for Third Day
-l-thumb.jpeg)
Nagpur, India:The massive fire at Bhandewadi dumping yard has now entered its third day, with the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) continuing its efforts to bring the situation under control. The fire, which started on Saturday afternoon, is still smouldering deep within the garbage heaps, releasing thick smoke and posing health risks to nearby residents.
To control the blaze, NMC teams have turned to a method called soil capping—covering the burning waste with layers of soil to cut off the oxygen supply and stop the fire from spreading further. This technique is being used along with traditional firefighting methods, such as water jets and fire tenders, which have been working around the clock.
While the fire has been contained in some areas, the core of the garbage mound continues to burn. Officials estimate it may take several more days before the fire is fully extinguished. In the meantime, garbage collection in the city has been affected, with vehicles being rerouted to temporary holding areas.
Residents in surrounding areas like Abbu Miya Nagar and Tulsi Nagar are reporting breathing issues and irritation due to the toxic smoke. The NMC has advised people to stay indoors and wear masks if going outside. Medical experts warn that the smoke may contain harmful substances like carbon monoxide and dioxins, especially dangerous for children and the elderly.
The Bhandewadi dump handles around 1,450 metric tonnes of waste daily. Frequent fires and poor waste management practices at the site have drawn criticism from environmentalists, who are now calling for urgent reforms.
The NMC has promised that all possible steps are being taken to control the situation and avoid similar incidents in the future.
