Kochi: After a massive fire broke out in the Brahmapuram waste management plant, Kochi saw large swathes of thick, black smoke. Surrounding areas were blanketed in the smoke. The Kerala High Court criticised the Kochi municipal body and said the city has become a "gas chamber".
When the fire started, residents were not much affected. The smoke became a problem after the fire was settled. Some houses in the area were full of smoke. People had to sleep with masks on. 30 teams of firefighters and navy choppers were trying to put out the fire.
The Ernakulam medical officer has set up a 27*7 control room.
Residents reported breathing problems due to smoke from plastic and metal. Burnt objects were seen floating in the smoke. Some experienced burning sensations in their eyes and throat. The Kerala government has asked people to use N95 masks outdoors and avoid jogging outside until the situation stabilised. All educational institutes in the district have been shut, reported NDTV.
It is speculated that at least 50,000 tonnes of waste caught fire and the fire department has managed to control smoke from 70% of the affected area. The other 30% is still being dealt with.