Tapuhia fire fighting enters 10th day [1]
Friday, December 30, 2016 - 12:06. Updated on Friday, December 30, 2016 - 12:07.
A fire fighting operation at Tapuhia Landfill enters its 10th day today as firefighters attempt to put out remaining hotspots over the landfill cell no.1, after a fire that started on 21 December turned into a massive blaze on Christmas Day.
Malakai Sika, CEO Waste Authority Ltd., stated this morning that the fire is under control but "the time to fully eliminate the fire is unknown at this stage".
"The fire operation will continue to dig out and wet the few remaining hot spots over the landfill. This may give rise to some short term steam, ash and smoke," he said.
The WAste Authority Ltd. confirmed that waste collection is fully operational during the holiday season despite the ongoing fire and the public can continue as usual to put out their rubbish for collection, and bring their own waste to the landfill.
"The fire operation at the Tapuhia Landfill does not affect the Waste Authority waste collection program," Malakai stated. "WAL has commenced using the new landfill cell no. 2."
The Police Fire Department is in charge of the fire operation with a multi-agency team consisting of Geology from Ministry of Lands, MEIDECC< Ministry of Health, HM ARmed Forces, Mele TOnga Water Supply Services and other private contractors who are assisting.