Small fires frequently break out at Perungudi and Kodungaiyur dumpyards during summers. They are usually put out quickly. Last week’s fire, however, was different. The massive fire caused an alarming increase in pollution levels, giving sleepless nights to thousands of families in the surrounding areas, including Perungudi, Kallukuttai, Velachery and Taramani.
“This time, fire broke out from coconut husks dumped inside a portion of the dumpyard and quickly spread to other areas. It was like a mountain of garbage burning,” said B.K. Ravi, Director- General of Police, Fire and Rescue Services.
Also, firemen say there was a delay in informing them of the fire. “We were informed very late, almost two hours after the fire broke out. Had we known early, we possibly could have contained the spread,” said a senior officer.
