Delhi Police Files FIR Against Unknown People Over Ghazipur Landfill Fire, Atishi Promises Investigation

The Ghazipur Police Station has registered a case under IPC sections 336 (endangering life or personal safety of others) and 278 (making atmosphere noxious). Fire at Ghazipur landfill began Sunday.

Smoke rises after a fire broke out at the Ghazipur landfill site on Sunday, in New Delhi. ( Image Source :PTI )

Delhi Police have filed an FIR against unknown persons in connection with the Ghazipur landfill fire, which began Sunday. The FIR, filed at the Ghazipur Police Station, invokes IPC sections 336 (endangering life or personal safety of others) and 278 (making atmosphere noxious to health).

The Delhi Fire Service has attributed the fire at the landfill to gases emanating from the colossal heap of waste. Residents of the areas near the landfill have complained about breathing difficulties, among other issues, as a result of the smoke. They also said the smoke prevented them from sending their children to school, as residents looked to limit their exposure to the air outside.

Ghazipur landfill site fire | Delhi Police files a case under IPC sections 336 (Act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 278 (Making atmosphere noxious to health) of the IPC against unidentified accused.

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2024

"It's been 15 hours since the fire broke out. This is not any common smoke, it is very poisonous. We are unable to keep our eyes open due to irritation and are breathing with difficulty," said Ram Kumar, a resident of Gharoli village, as quoted by PTI. 

Atishi Promises Investigation 

Delhi cabinet minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Monday said the Ghazipur landfill fire incident will be investigated to ascertain the cause of the blaze, according to a PTI report.

The BJP has criticised the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the city government, both run by the AAP, for their alleged inaction in improving living conditions in the capital.

Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi, however, dismissed the allegations. She said she "instructed officers to act and inspect the site" as soon as she heard about the incident. "They were here the whole night. It is better now. The situation is better. The smoke will be controlled in the next 5 hours. We will investigate the matter... It is not the time for politics," she was quoted as saying by PTI.