The Bhandewadi dumping yard fire entered Day 4 on Tuesday, with dense smoke still smothering East Nagpur. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) is in overdrive to contain the flames — but new hurdles are emerging.
To suffocate the blaze, 1,880 tonnes of soil have been dumped atop the burning mound, transported via 235 tipper truck trips, each carrying 8 tonnes. The soil, sourced from nearby bio-mining pits, is being laid over the waste to cut off oxygen and slow the fire’s spread.
Adding to the crisis, fire tenders have been draining water from nearby wells, leading to plummeting groundwater levels. In response, Orange City Water (OCW) has stepped in, refilling the wells via tankers, effectively turning them into water-charging stations for the fire trucks — a move welcomed by locals and officials alike.
Despite efforts, the core of the garbage mountain still burns, releasing toxic gases like dioxins, CO, and hydrogen cyanide. Residents of Tulsi Nagar and Abbumiyan Nagar report breathing issues, skin irritation, and eye discomfort, while firefighters continue their battle using M50 protective respirators.
Meanwhile, garbage collection citywide is crippled, with 600 waste vehicles rerouted to temporary holding sites near the SusBDe sewage treatment plant.
As the fire rages on, the bigger question remains — is Nagpur prepared for a long-term, sustainable waste management solution?