Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips visited Amelia’s Ward in Linden on Tuesday to personally assess the ongoing fire at the Waaldijk Sawmill dump, as thick smoke and persistent flames continue to affect the surrounding community. Accompanied by Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and a team of disaster response officials, the Prime Minister received a comprehensive briefing on containment strategies and response efforts currently underway.
The fire, which broke out last week at the sawmill dump, has proven challenging to extinguish due to the presence of subsurface organic and waste material, resulting in persistent smoke and health concerns for nearby residents. The government’s response has included the creation of a large ditch around the fire zone to act as a buffer, pushing trees inward to prevent the flames from spreading further into the forest and residential areas. Additional support has been provided by installing a fire hydrant and identifying alternative water sources to aid firefighting operations.
During a live interview on local radio, Prime Minister Phillips assured the public that the government is treating the situation as a disaster and will continue to provide all necessary equipment, resources, and logistical support to the Guyana Fire Service, Civil Defence Commission (CDC), and other key agencies. He emphasized that every available resource is being mobilized to bring relief to the people of Linden as quickly as possible.
Minister Edghill highlighted that all practical measures are being implemented to ensure a swift return to normalcy. Temporary shelters have been established by the CDC for those affected, while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) remains on the ground, actively monitoring air quality and consulting with residents.
Recent EPA air quality assessments indicate that carbon monoxide levels remain within World Health Organization standards. However, several residents, particularly pregnant women and children with respiratory conditions, have reported discomfort and health impacts due to the smoke. The EPA has advised residents to limit outdoor activities, keep windows and doors closed, use face masks when necessary, and report any severe symptoms to health authorities.
The government, in collaboration with the Guyana Fire Service, CDC, EPA, and local stakeholders, continues to monitor the situation closely, promising to keep residents informed through public advisories and to take further action as needed to protect the health and well-being of the Linden community.
