BINTULU, Sept 9 – A fire that erupted at the Tanjung Kidurong landfill on September 8 has now spread over five acres, with efforts to control the blaze continuing amid challenging conditions. The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) reported that firefighting operations have been ongoing since yesterday afternoon, with authorities working tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading further.
Bomba and Other Agencies Mobilised for Firefighting Efforts
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) has been at the forefront of the firefighting operations since the blaze began. According to the latest report, Bomba personnel have been working from two strategic points to combat the flames. At Point A, a 200ft hose was connected to a water tanker equipped with a spray nozzle, while at Point B, another 200ft hose was attached to a portable pump to effectively douse the fire.
Bomba operation commander Harrison Dawi instructed his team to continuously monitor the situation from both points, ensuring that the blaze remained under control. Efforts continued until 6am this morning, with firefighters temporarily halting operations due to a heavy downpour, which provided some much-needed assistance in cooling down the flames.
Fire Erupts Amid Scorching Weather Conditions
The fire at the Tanjung Kidurong landfill was first reported yesterday at noon, amid scorching hot weather that quickly fuelled the flames. The fire spread rapidly due to the dry and windy conditions, challenging the efforts of the firefighting teams on the ground.
Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, the company responsible for managing the landfill, initiated immediate firefighting efforts upon discovering the fire. Both surface and base-level fires were targeted in their initial operations, which began even before Bomba arrived at the scene. Trienekens’ proactive measures played a crucial role in slowing the spread of the fire, buying valuable time for additional support to arrive.
Collaboration with Bintulu Development Authority
At around 3.05pm, the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) joined the firefighting efforts to provide additional support. BDA deployed 11 personnel along with a water tanker to bolster the operations, enhancing the capacity to tackle the spreading fire. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of multi-agency coordination during such emergencies, especially in areas like Sarawak, where landfills play a crucial role in waste management.
By 2.25pm, a seven-member Bomba team was still actively battling the flames, showcasing the persistence and dedication of all involved agencies. The combination of equipment, manpower, and strategic planning has been pivotal in managing the challenging circumstances presented by the ongoing fire.
Impact of Fire and Future Precautionary Measures
The Tanjung Kidurong landfill fire serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with waste management, especially during periods of extreme weather. Landfill fires can have serious environmental and health implications due to the release of toxic gases and pollutants, underscoring the importance of rapid response and effective fire management strategies.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, particularly during hot and dry seasons when fire risks are heightened. Proper waste management, such as avoiding the disposal of flammable materials and ensuring that waste is properly compacted and covered, can significantly reduce the risk of landfill fires.
In addition, the collaboration between Bomba, Trienekens, and the Bintulu Development Authority highlights the need for comprehensive emergency response plans that involve all relevant stakeholders. This incident underscores the importance of having well-equipped and coordinated firefighting teams that can respond swiftly to prevent large-scale damage.
Ongoing Efforts and Monitoring
As of the latest update, firefighting efforts are ongoing, with authorities closely monitoring the situation. The heavy downpour early this morning provided temporary relief, but teams remain on high alert to ensure that the fire does not reignite or spread further.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department continues to urge residents and businesses near the landfill to stay informed about the situation and adhere to any safety advisories issued by the authorities. While the fire is currently contained, the full extinguishing process may take time due to the complex nature of landfill fires.
Efforts to douse the Tanjung Kidurong landfill fire will continue until the site is deemed completely safe. Authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and preventing any potential environmental hazards.