BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – FOLLOWING reports of dark plumes of smoke rising from the Conaree area, officials from the Solid Waste Management Corporation (SWMC) confirmed on Monday evening that the smoke was the result of a fire at the landfill.
In a statement, the corporation advised that the landfill is currently experiencing “a major fire event.”
“We understand the concern this may raise among residents and stakeholders, and we are committed to keeping the public fully informed as the situation develops,” the statement said.
SWMC noted that, given the landfill's proximity to the Robert L. Bradshaw (RLB) International Airport, questions had been raised about possible disruptions to airport operations. However, the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA) confirmed that the airport is not under threat and that normal operations continued.
According to the corporation, the fire originated in the landfill's Construction and Demolition (C&D) cell.
“Despite the immediate deployment of our fire suppression resources, the intensity of the fire exceeded our on-site control efforts, which unfortunately allowed it to spread to the tyre storage area of the facility. Response and containment operations are actively ongoing,” SWMC stated.
Residents in surrounding communities are being urged to remain aware of smoke and air quality conditions and to take the necessary precautions. The corporation advised residents to keep windows and doors closed where possible and to limit outdoor activities, particularly for children, the elderly, and persons with respiratory conditions.
SWMC also expressed gratitude to the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, SCASPA, and the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Services for their assistance.
The corporation said it will continue to provide updates as response efforts progress.
SWMC also apologized for any inconvenience caused by the incident.
