A landfill in Taraz is on fire, forcing residents to breathe acrid gray smoke for the second day. Many complain of coughing and headaches. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing KTK TV channel.
Residents say they noticed the smoke on Monday evening. Initially, witnesses thought it was again emissions from the phosphorus plant. However, it turned out that a household waste landfill on the outskirts of the city was burning. The flames covered an area of two hectares. Firefighters have been battling the blaze for two days but have not yet managed to contain it.
"The landfill is always under surveillance, there is security. The fire was not caused by arson. There are many bottles, various containers, and canisters that could cause a fire. Especially now that hot weather has set in," said Deputy Akim of Taraz Damir Zhamanbayev.
Meanwhile, ecologists conducted measurements of atmospheric air quality. They recorded excess levels of carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. An unscheduled inspection has been ordered.
City residents are expressing concern and demanding urgent action from authorities. Issues of fire prevention and air quality control are coming to the forefront. Currently, firefighting efforts continue, and ecologists are monitoring the situation.