"It Was Choking": Kochi Residents Fear Long-Term Impact Of Toxic Smoke
NDTV
Although nine days have passed since the fire, Kerala government is yet to release scientific data on the toxicity levels
Over 30 teams of firefighters and navy choppers continue to fight dense smoke that has engulfed a solid waste management plant in Kerala's Kochi. The fire was put out on the second day, but the area remains enveloped by thick smoke for over a week now.
The 100-acre garbage dump yard has been emitting toxic fumes for 9 days straight. Continuing residual fires in two sectors of the garbage dump are the reason for the toxic fume spread. While bulldozers scoop out layers of garbage, firefighters relentlessly spray water to douse it.
At a women's hostel 1.5 km away from the dumpyard, engineering students Anjali and Naurin said the stench has been a 24x7 nightmare. "It was choking. We slept with a mask on," said Anjali. "My parents are worried. They want me home. I am leaving tomorrow," Naurin added.
Vian, an engineering student studying at a college near the dumping ground, has returned to his hometown Thrissur in Kerala. "It was like a blanket of smoke. We couldn't breathe," he told NDTV from there.
