A major fire erupted at the Burj Hammoud landfill on Thursday, sending thick clouds of black smoke over Beirut and the surrounding Metn area and sparking concerns about the spread of harmful toxins.

The fire, which broke out at the massive landfill, has been described as an "environmental crime" by Kataeb Party leader, MP Samy Gemayel.

In a post on his X account, Gemayel deplored the fire as a tragic consequence of a reckless decision made eight years ago, when the government approved the establishment of the landfill despite numerous warnings about its environmental and health risks.

"We warned of the dangers and stood against it with all our might," Gemayel wrote. "However, greed and irresponsibility prevailed, and today, we are left with mountains of toxic fumes and harmful gases that are endangering the lives of Beirut and Metn residents."

Gemayel urged the immediate closure of landfills, calling for the adoption of well-known alternative solutions that could protect both the environment and public health.

As firefighting teams worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, thick clouds of smoke continue to billow over the capital, sparking panic among residents. Many locals complained about the strong smell of toxic fumes, expressing fears over the health hazards caused by prolonged exposure to the smoke.

حريق مكب برج حمود يتمدد pic.twitter.com/cyUZciYB9g

— kataeb.org (@kataeb_Ar) September 12, 2024

مازالت النيران مشتعلة في مكب النفايات الدورة pic.twitter.com/amHYYUJZkZ

— kataeb.org (@kataeb_Ar) September 12, 2024