By Tapiwa Svondo
The City of Bulawayo says it is still making efforts to put out a fire that broke out last Sunday at the Richmond Landfill Site which has been attributed to spontaneous combustion.
The blaze has raised concerns among residents who fear inhaling smoke that has since spread to nearby suburbs.
In a statement Bulawayo Acting Town Clerk Tennyson Mpunzi said that efforts are underway to control the fire so it does not spread any further but high temperatures and windy conditions have complicated the process.
“The City of Bulawayo would like to advise members of the public that the Richmond Landfill Site is on fire due to spontaneous combustion and efforts are underway to curb the smoke nuisance that is emanating from the Landfill.
“The City has been battling with the fire since Sunday 29th September 2024 and has created fireguards to control the spread using a front-end loader. High temperatures and the wind have however been a challenge in controlling the fire resulting in smoke spreading to neighbouring suburbs.
“The City of Bulawayo is dumping topsoil in an endeavour to smoother the fire. Regrettably, flames are posing a danger to the plant and equipment as well as the City of Bulawayo teams that are on the ground,” said Mpunzi
Residents in areas surrounding the landfill have been urged to keep windows closed and limit outdoor activities until the smoke clears.
“Residents are advised to keep windows closed and minimise going outside until the smoke has subsided.
“The City of Bulawayo apologises to the community for the inconvenience caused”, added Mpunzi.