As Ghazipur residents complain of throat and breathing irritation, we ask experts about health risks associated with landfill fire smoke

Hours after a huge fire erupted in Ghazipur landfill, a thick layer of toxic smoke continued to blanket the area. According to news agency PTI, “Complaints of throat and breathing irritation were received from several residents who live close to the landfill.”

The Delhi Fire Service reported that the fire started Sunday evening, likely ignited by gases produced within the massive pile of waste. An official from DFS said, “Our teams are there and are working to douse flames completely. The fire call was received on Sunday evening at 5.22 pm. Initially we had sent two fire engines, but later eight fire engines were pressed into service.” 

The immediate aftermath of the Ghazipur landfill fire raises questions about the health risks associated with such incidents. The complaints made by the residents living in proximity to the landfill highlight the acute effects of exposure to landfill fire emissions. 

Immediate health risks of exposure to landfill fire smoke

Dr Shivakumar K, MD Respiratory Medicine and senior consultant pulmonologist at Birds Clinic, says, “Inhalation of smoke from landfill fires can cause immediate irritation to the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. This is due to the presence of particulate matter and toxic gases like carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide in the smoke.”

The smoke can also cause severe irritation to the eyes, he says, leading to redness, itching, and watering. Skin exposure can result in irritation and rashes, especially for sensitive individuals.

Additionally, toxic compounds such as dioxins and furans, which can be released when waste materials burn, pose serious health risks. These compounds are highly toxic and can affect the liver, central nervous system, and other bodily functions.

People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing severe health effects from smoke exposure. (Source: Freepik)

Long-term health implications for residents near landfills

“Prolonged exposure to pollutants from landfill fires can lead to chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema,” informs Dr Shivakumar.

According to him, long-term exposure to certain chemicals, especially carcinogenic compounds released in landfill fires, can increase the risk of cancer. Dioxins are particularly concerning in this regard, as they are well-known carcinogens.

Continuous exposure to low levels of toxic emissions can also impair the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.

Vulnerability of specific population groups

Dr Shivakumar stresses that there are certain groups of people who need to be more careful of such toxic smoke. 

Children

Due to their developing bodies and respiratory systems, children are particularly susceptible to the effects of toxic smoke. They breathe more air per body weight than adults, increasing their exposure to airborne toxins.

Elderly

Older adults often have pre-existing health conditions that can be exacerbated by smoke inhalation, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

Individuals with pre-existing conditions

People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing severe health effects from smoke exposure.

Environmental and public health concerns

“Landfill fires significantly degrade air quality, leading to higher concentrations of particulate matter and hazardous gases in the atmosphere. This can have widespread health effects beyond the immediate vicinity of the fire,” remarks Dr Shivakumar.

He adds that chemicals from the fire can deposit on the soil and leach into groundwater, posing long-term environmental hazards and affecting water quality.

To address these issues, he suggests the following community protection measures:

Monitoring and Response: Regular monitoring of air quality in areas surrounding landfills is crucial. Rapid response mechanisms to extinguish fires quickly can help minimise exposure.

Public Health Advisories: Issuing timely health advisories and guidelines can help residents minimize exposure. Recommendations may include staying indoors, using air purifiers, and wearing masks.

Long-term Solutions: Improving waste management practices, reducing waste generation, and enhancing landfill safety standards are essential to prevent future incidents. Community awareness and engagement in waste reduction and recycling efforts can also mitigate risks.

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