Phuket –
Phuket has declared an emergency assistance zone as crews battle a stubborn blaze at the municipal landfill near Saphan Hin, which has been burning for two consecutive days.
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Now for the update:
Governor Nirut Phongsitthithavorn, joined by senior provincial officials and the Mayor of Phuket City, visited the site at 8 p.m. to oversee firefighting operations. The declaration enables rapid mobilization of resources and emergency aid for residents affected by smoke and health hazards.
Local authorities initially managed to contain parts of the fire, but deep layers of combustible waste continue to reignite. In response, the province has coordinated a “friend-help-friend” campaign, pooling fire trucks and personnel from multiple municipalities.
To overcome delays caused by water transport, officials have requested long-distance pumping systems capable of delivering continuous high-volume water from nearby sources. Installation of pipelines is expected overnight, with hourly assessments planned. The goal is to fully extinguish the fire before dawn.
Authorities are monitoring air quality and smoke drift closely. Evacuation plans are in place for communities downwind, with the provincial multipurpose hall designated as a temporary shelter. Continuous water spraying is scheduled for two to five days to suppress lingering smoke.
Governor Nirut stated that all agencies, from municipal crews to the Royal Thai Navy, are working around the clock to contain the blaze, prevent further spread, and minimize public health risks.
The landfill, located near the coastline, poses a big challenge due to its size and the volume of waste acting as fuel. Residents have reported strong odors and smoke affecting daily life. Officials pledged to maintain 24-hour operations until the situation is fully under control.
