Surat Municipal Corporation Implements New Chemical Strategy to Combat Waste Site Fires
The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has initiated a novel approach to tackle the persistent problem of recurring fires at the Khajod waste disposal site. On Thursday, officials conducted preliminary trials of specialized chemical solutions, including bioculum and foam, marking a significant shift in fire management tactics for the facility.
Chemical Interventions Target Deep-Seated Fires
According to an SMC official, these products have been successfully deployed in other parts of the country and play a crucial role in treating fire-affected waste. "These chemical agents are essential for breaking down the methane gas trapped within the garbage mass," the official explained. "Methane acts as an internal fuel source, and reducing its concentration is key to controlling both the fires and the thick smoke emissions."
Despite achieving surface-level control, deep-seated fires continue to smolder, releasing substantial smoke. The fire department is concurrently testing foam as an additional method to suppress these smoke plumes effectively.
Enhanced Operational Measures and Infrastructure Upgrades
To bolster these efforts, SMC is addressing several operational challenges:
- Water Supply Improvements: Currently, fire tenders face delays by traveling to Bhimrad and Althan for refilling. Authorities are exploring the installation of a 5 lakh-litre water tank at DREAM City, with pumping infrastructure being established to ensure a continuous supply.
- Drone Technology: The corporation is investigating the use of drones to spray bioculum or foam over wider areas, thereby minimizing risks to ground personnel and enhancing coverage efficiency.
- Surveillance Enhancements: CCTV cameras are being installed at the site to enable round-the-clock monitoring, strengthening preventive measures against future incidents.
Recent Fire Incidents and Response Efforts
The urgency of these measures is underscored by recent fire outbreaks. On April 6, a reignition occurred in a section of Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) stock, exacerbated by high temperatures and shifting winds, causing smoke to spread towards the north-east.
Earlier, on March 24, a major blaze engulfed nearly 2 kilometers of the site, affecting both RDF and recyclable waste. To contain this fire, SMC deployed an extensive response:
- 18 excavators and backhoe loaders were utilized for waste management.
- Over 150 truckloads of soil were dumped to smother the flames.
- More than 12 fire engines and water bowsers, along with over 50 firefighters, were engaged in the operation.
- Officials reported using over 8 million litres of water to control the blaze.
These incidents highlight the critical need for the new chemical strategies and infrastructure upgrades being implemented by the Surat Municipal Corporation to ensure long-term fire control and environmental safety at the Khajod waste disposal site.
