Scientists say the formation of extremely flammable methane in the landfill, coupled with high temperatures could have started the fire
The Bhalswa landfill in the eastern part of Delhi is on fire. The fire started on April 27, 2022, and has continued even after 30 hours. Here, the landfill is seen burning at night. Photo: Vikas Choudhary / CSE
The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. But experts have said it could have started because of the formation of extremely flammable methane gas at the waste dump. Delhi is already in the throes of a heatwave and this is why the dump could have caught fire. Here, people watch as the landfill burns. Photo: Vikas Choudhary / CSE
A number of fire tenders have been pressed into service to extinguish the flames. According to media reports, they have been able to put out large fires. But with smaller fires lighting up, it will still take time to put out the inferno entirely. Here, a fire tender sprinkles water on the flames. Photo: Vikas Choudhary / CSE
People in the area have complained of sore throat, itchy eyes and breathing problems. Photo: Vikas Choudhary / CSE
The incident has turned political with the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi accusing the urban local bodies that are run by the BJP of corruption that has consequently led to frequent fires in landfills. Photo: Vikas Choudhary / CSE
This is the fourth incident of fire in a Delhi landfill this year. There have been three fire incidents already at the Ghazipur landfill. This is the first such incident in Bhalswa this year. Photo: Vikas Choudhary / CSE
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