Fire yet to subside in Brahmapuram, Kochi filled with smoke

KOCHI: Kochi city and its surrounding areas are not yet free from the toxic fumes coming from the plastic waste that caught fire at the Brahmapuram waste plant. The fire in the plant is yet to be fully extinguished. There are 32 fire force units in the plant day and night, including that of the navy. On Sunday night, there was a lot of smoke in the Kakkanad and Maradu areas. As instructed by the district collector, people did not come out much in the Brahmapuram region on Sunday. Stores and other businesses remained closed.

No significant health problems were reported despite the smoke and stench. Three people, who suffered from breathing problems, returned after seeking treatment at the Tripunithura Taluk Hospital.

Ernakulam collector Renu Raj declared a holiday for schools under Thrikakkara, Tripunithura, Maradu municipalities, and Kochi municipal corporation on Monday. Kindergarten, aided schools, non-aided, CBSE, and ISC schools with students up to class seven will have a holiday on Monday.

An emergency high-level meeting held in the presence of Industries Minister P Rajeev, Health Minister Veena George and Local Self-Government Minister MB Rajesh assessed the situation on Sunday morning. A special committee was formed to manage the affairs in Brahmapuram. The ministers told the media that the situation is not alarming.

Children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory conditions like asthma should stay indoors, health minister Veena George said. She said that other people ought to put on N-95 masks.

Special smoke wards have been opened at Ernakulam Medical College, General Hospital and Tripunithura Taluk Hospital. The services of lung disease experts have also been arranged.

27 people, including firemen and corporation employees working in the plant, sought treatment after feeling unwell. One person was admitted to the hospital. Although two navy helicopters were ready to spray water, the district administration informed them that their services were not required.

The Pollution Control Board has issued a notice to the Kochi Corporation slapping a fine of Rs 1.81 crore for causing serious environmental pollution.