Dump inferno under control: Nakauvadra

“I have to keep the fan on for the whole night, so that they can sleep for a few hours”

Lautoka City Council chief executive Jone Nakauvadra has confirmed that the fire in the Vunato rubbish dump has subsided.

“Due to strong winds, we have not been able to fully put off the fire but compared to Monday, it has lessened,” Mr Nakauvadra said.

He said that the six acres of rubbish dump was on fire and it was quite difficult for the city council to control it. “We are working very closely with National Fire Authority to control this issue. I also request the residents affected to stay calm and the matter will be solved by this week,” he said.

But it was hard for residents to stay calm because the smoke from the fire was disrupting their sleep and affecting their laundry. Mohammed Nadeem, 45, of Lovu Lautoka yesterday said that his family was really affected by the smoke from the dump.

“I have children attending school and they can’t sleep well at night,” Mr Nadeem said.

“This is affecting their school work and I request the Lautoka City Council to do something about this.”

Lovu resident Sarifa Rahiman said that she had not been able to wash clothes and complete other household chores due to the fire.

“I can’t wash clothes because if I dry it outside, it will get all the black smoke,” Ms Rahiman said.

“I also have to clean the house thoroughly because of this smoke. The smoke is also affecting my children’s breathing and health.

“I have to keep the fan on for the whole night, so that they can sleep for a few hours.”

According to Mr Nakauvadra the fire started on Sunday afternoon and investigations continued with the NFA.