Online Reporter
Vusumuzi Dube, Deputy Radar Editor
RESIDENTS of Cowdray Park, Emakhandeni, Richmond in Bulawayo and surrounding areas will have to endure approximately a week of burning fumes, as the city council works to extinguish a fire that broke out at the Richmond Landfill Site commonly known as Ngozi Mine.
The fire has resulted in an increase in toxic fumes, an ongoing issue for residents in these suburbs, amid reports that some individuals have developed respiratory illnesses from inhaling the smoke emitted by burning waste at the site.
According to residents, the fire started last Friday, prompting many to take to social media to urge the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to intervene and resolve the crisis.
The council has confirmed that the heightened smoke is due to a fire at the landfill site, which they allege was started by scavengers operating in the area.
Providing an update on the situation, the city’s Town Clerk, Mr Christopher Dube, said council teams were on the ground attempting to smother the fire using water and gravel in order to reduce the smoke hazard.
“The City of Bulawayo wishes to inform members of the public that the fire which broke out at the Richmond Landfill Site is currently being addressed. The fire and resultant smoke are affecting communities in Cowdray Park, Emakhandeni, Richmond and surrounding areas, and it is estimated that it will take around seven days for the situation at the landfill site to return to normal.
“The City of Bulawayo is deeply concerned about the illegal practice of burning at the landfill and continues to engage with the salvaging community, although unfortunately, the problem persists,” said Mr Dube.
He also revealed that the council is working alongside regulatory partners such as the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police to find the best way to prevent a recurrence.
“Residents are encouraged to minimise exposure by wearing face masks when outdoors. Where possible, they should remain indoors and keep windows closed as much as possible,” Mr Dube added.
While the landfill site is an essential component of the city’s waste management system, recurring fires have become a serious issue, creating a toxic black cloud of smoke that envelops nearby areas.
The fires are reportedly caused not only by the build-up of methane gases but also by individuals scavenging for metals to sell. The consequences of this ongoing problem have been severe for residents.
Many have suffered from respiratory ailments, with prolonged exposure to the toxic fumes weakening their lungs. The impact on their health is matched only by their growing frustration with the Bulawayo City Council, which has yet to implement a lasting solution to the issue.
