Fire at Pallikaranai Dumpyard Disrupts South Chennai

A significant fire erupted at the Greater Chennai Corporation's dumpyard in Pallikaranai on Thursday morning, leading to the destruction of heaps of garbage and several seized vehicles. The fire began around 8:30 am in an area where Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) waste, including plastic and other combustible materials processed into fuel pellets, was stored. Strong winds exacerbated the situation, causing thick black smoke to spread across southern Chennai suburbs, disrupting traffic on major roads. Approximately 200 seized vehicles were at the site, with around 50 two-wheelers and several cars destroyed by the fire.

Corporation officials indicated that the RDF waste, known for its high combustibility, might have ignited due to friction, with high ambient temperatures possibly contributing. Fortunately, the fire was contained before reaching a nearby baling unit. Officials noted the presence of water tankers on standby, which allowed for a rapid response even before fire tenders arrived.

Residents in areas such as Madipakkam, Pallikaranai, Mylai Balaji Nagar, Perungudi, and Thuraipakkam reported breathing difficulties due to the smoke and odor from the burning waste. Traffic on the Tambaram-Velachery Road was severely affected, causing delays for bus commuters, auto passengers, and two-wheeler riders. The Pallavaram-Thuraipakkam Radial Road also experienced disruptions. Six fire tenders from various locations, including Tambaram, Guindy, Velachery, Medavakkam, and Adyar, along with water tankers from Chennai Metro Water, were deployed to control the blaze, which was brought under control by the afternoon after more than four hours of firefighting.