Bulawayo Battles Four-day Blaze at Richmond Landfill

By Anisha Hungwe

The Bulawayo City Council is locked in a desperate fight against a fierce fire at the Richmond Landfill Site, now raging for four consecutive days after spontaneous combustion ignited the blaze on Sunday, September 29. 

In a statement released yesterday evening, the local authority said that despite intense efforts by firefighters, soaring temperatures and thick smoke continue to hinder containment efforts. 

Meanwhile, crews have used heavy machinery to create firebreaks and are dumping topsoil to smother the flames. However, the relentless fire poses ongoing risks to equipment, personnel, and nearby areas. 

Surrounding suburbs, imcluding Richmond, are blanketed by smoke, forcing residents indoors and prompting the council to issue warnings to keep windows shut and reduce outdoor activity.

As the situation escalates, the city is exploring all available options to extinguish the fire and safeguard both residents and the environment. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with safety guidelines while the blaze is being closely monitored for further developments.