Emergency crews are battling a fire at Cook's Sanitary Landfill that broke out late Tuesday night, raising health concerns for residents in surrounding communities. According to Antigua.news, the blaze ignited at approximately 10:00 p.m. and firefighting efforts have been ongoing since.
The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) confirmed the fire but has not indicated a cause. Authorities say they are closely monitoring the situation and will issue further updates should conditions deteriorate.
Residents in the vicinity have reported smoke and reduced air quality. In response, the NSWMA has issued a public health advisory urging those with respiratory conditions to remain indoors or take precautionary measures to limit their exposure to smoke.
The Authority issued an apology for the disruption, acknowledging the impact on daily life in nearby communities. Despite the ongoing firefighting operation, the landfill remains open. Users have been advised to proceed with caution as staff manage operations under difficult conditions.
The NSWMA has also signaled its intention to introduce stronger safeguards aimed at reducing the likelihood of similar incidents occurring in the future.
