Phuket landfill fire contained but smoke continues

A landfill fire in Saphan Hin, Mueang district, Phuket, was contained by emergency crews on April 11, but Phuket City Municipality officials warned that smoke continues to rise from the site. The blaze, which broke out around 3:17pm at the municipal waste facility, was fueled by accumulated wood waste and branches in landfill pits four and five, according to officials.

Firefighting Efforts and Ongoing Hazards

Firefighters from the municipal disaster prevention and mitigation unit managed to bring the flames under control within a limited area, but waste beneath the surface remains smouldering. Five fire engines have been deployed to the site, and excavators are being used to move rubbish and improve access for water spraying.

The landfill spans over 50 rai, or 80,000 square metres, and the affected waste pile stands more than three metres high. Smoke from the site can be seen from up to four kilometres away, and dry weather has complicated efforts to fully extinguish the fire.

Community Impact and Official Response

The landfill is located about 500 metres from a nearby community and five chicken farms, prompting health concerns for residents and workers in the area. Phuket City Municipality has urged people living nearby and those travelling through Saphan Hin to wear face masks, especially during periods of strong wind.

Chalermpong Saengdee, MP for Phuket’s District 2, and Supachok Laongphet, mayor of Phuket City Municipality, visited the scene with relevant agencies to assess the damage and discuss measures to prevent future incidents. Residents were also advised to monitor official announcements for updates, municipal authorities said.

Source: https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-landfill-fire-contained-smoke-continues