Indonesia Landfill Fire Enters Eighth Day, Triggering Health Fears

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Jakarta : A massive fire at a landfill on the outskirts of Jakarta has been burning for eight days, forcing hundreds of residents to leave their homes and raising concerns over Indonesia's growing waste management crisis.

The blaze at the Jatiwaringin landfill has spread across more than 15 hectares, sending thick toxic smoke into nearby communities. Health officials said hundreds of residents have reported respiratory problems, with dozens diagnosed with acute respiratory infections. Firefighters are using helicopters, bulldozers, water tankers and drones to bring the fire under control.

Authorities said the fire began on June 30 and has been difficult to extinguish because it continues to smoulder beneath large piles of waste. Environmental groups believe methane gas released from decomposing rubbish may have fuelled the blaze, highlighting the dangers of open dumping practices.

The government plans to investigate the cause once the fire is fully extinguished and has announced a review of hundreds of landfills across the country. Environmental campaigners, however, say lasting reforms in waste management are needed to prevent similar disasters from happening again.

Pic Credit: AFP