The Ghazipur landfill site is covered in thick plumes of smoke even 24 hours after a fire broke out there. The poisonous smoke has left residents gasping for breath and triggered a political blame game, with the BJP accusing the AAP-led MCD of "criminal negligence."
On Monday, the Delhi government directed its environment department to submit a detailed report on the causes of the fire and an action plan to prevent similar incidents at such sites in the summer.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) said 90 per cent of the fire has been extinguished, and around 40-50 small isolated flames remain in the 3,000 sqm area that saw the fire.
"Around 600 MT of inert and C&D waste was used to extinguish the fire. Sixteen excavators, two bulldozers and six fire tenders were pressed into service to stamp out the fire. Sprinklers are continually working to ensure that no dust or ash is spread in the neighbourhood," the MCD said in a statement.
"It is hoped that the fire will be extinguished completely at night today. Men and machinery are continuously working in this direction," it added.
The fire broke out at the landfill site in east Delhi on Sunday evening.
At the Ghazipur landfill site, MCD Mayor Shelly Oberoi says, "The situation is completely under control now, and there is no need to fear. BJP should understand that this is not the time to do politics when natural disasters strike..."
Meanwhile, locals complained of breathing issues and struggled to keep their eyes open due to the poisonous smoke filling the air.
Officials blamed hot and dry weather conditions as the likely trigger for the fire.
According to police, a case under Indian Penal Code sections 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 278 (making atmosphere noxious to health) has been registered at Ghazipur police station, and a probe has begun.
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