The ongoing fire at the Vunato landfill in Lautoka has persisted for nearly four days, causing significant health worries as thick, toxic smoke envelops surrounding communities. Local residents, particularly children and the elderly, have reported challenges in breathing, with many experiencing coughing, sore throats, and symptoms resembling asthma. Peceli Dau, a long-time supervisor at the landfill, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The dump fire is a serious health risk for everyone in Lautoka.” He noted that the smoke even impacted his voice due to its density, exacerbating the health issues faced by many children in the area.
Taitusi Rasoki, the Special Administrator Chair of the Lautoka City Council, acknowledged the council’s ongoing efforts to contain the smoke but admitted to difficulties stemming from factors such as wind direction and the extensive nature of the landfill. He mentioned that the council is devising long-term strategies to enhance responses to landfill fires, which have been a recurrent issue in the region. “First, we will try to erect towers so that it can be manned by the workers. So that as soon as they see smoke from somewhere within the dump site, they can communicate with us,” Rasoki reported.
In response to the immediate problems posed by the ongoing fire, health teams will monitor the situation closely, and measures to prevent future landfill fires are expected to be implemented soon. Rasoki expressed his commitment to addressing the health hazards posed to local residents, noting, “Despite all those challenges, I understand that it is a health hazard and it is a risk to the people that are living in the locality.”
The Vunato landfill has a long history of fires, and residents are voicing their urgent calls for authorities to take swift action. These incidents highlight broader environmental concerns as the Vunato dump, which receives approximately 75.5 tonnes of waste daily, continues to grapple with its capacity issues. As the government collaborates with the Ministry of Local Government for additional waste management solutions, there is a collective hope that a new landfill site will be developed to provide a more sustainable solution to the ongoing waste crisis.
This situation underscores the critical need for sustainable waste management practices not just in Lautoka but across Fiji, as efforts are ramped up to address the significant environmental challenges related to current landfill operations. With proactive measures in place, there is a renewed sense of optimism that the health and well-being of Lautoka’s residents can be safeguarded in the future.
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