New Delhi, India (Sarhind Times) – August 6, 2024
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has reached out to the fire department, requesting innovative techniques and equipment to tackle persistent landfill fires at Ghazipur. This request comes after conventional methods proved ineffective during a three-day-long fire at the site in April. The MCD’s report, submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on August 2, highlights the challenges posed by methane-led fires and the unstable nature of landfills.
The MCD’s report indicates that the fire in April was the only reported incident at a city landfill this year. This is a marked improvement compared to previous years, signaling that preventive measures at Delhi’s three landfill sites—Ghazipur, Okhla, and Bhalswa—are beginning to take effect. Preventive measures include patrolling, the use of perforated pipes to release methane gas, restrictions on smoking near the landfills, and regular water sprinkling.
The Ghazipur landfill remains the most problematic among Delhi’s dumpsites. It has witnessed two major fires over the past year—on June 12, 2023, and April 21, 2024. Historical data shows a significant reduction in landfill fires: from 54 incidents (including 23 major ones) in 2016-17 to just one major fire this year.
The fire department has been tasked with developing new methodologies and equipment to extinguish landfill fires, as conventional water-carrying fire tenders have proven inadequate. The report suggests that the development of chemical-based extinguishing agents could be a potential solution.
A fire department official explained the inherent challenges of managing landfill fires. These fires, often fueled by methane from decomposing organic waste, can ignite at multiple spots, making it difficult to pinpoint their origins. The uneven terrain of landfills further complicates the deployment of fire tenders, increasing the risk of vehicles becoming trapped or toppling over.
To mitigate the risk of such fires, the MCD has proposed fencing or enclosing sanitary landfill sites, with a ₹25 crore proposal submitted to the Delhi government. Methane-related fires are particularly prevalent during peak summer months and post-monsoon periods when decomposition rates increase due to higher moisture content.
As the MCD and fire department collaborate on new strategies, the goal is to enhance fire prevention and response measures at all landfill sites, ensuring the safety and well-being of nearby communities.
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