Fire at Amelia’s Ward, flames remain active in isolated zone
Apr 12, 2025
Kaieteur News- A large fire which erupted at a waste dump at Waaldijk Sawmill in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, continues to burn within an isolated area, the Ministry of Home Affairs said Friday.
The fire at Waaldijk Sawmill in Amelia’s Ward
On Wednesday, firefighters battled the flames which engulfed the waste dump of the sawmill at Amelia’s Ward. The Regional Democratic Council has activated its Regional Disaster Preparedness and Response Protocol to mobilise all available support. The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has also been informed and will work closely with the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) and other relevant authorities to monitor the situation and assess whether external assistance is needed.
While the situation remains active, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) confirmed that the blaze had been successfully contained and is no longer spreading.
The fire prompted a swift response from the fire service. Through coordinated efforts, firefighters have managed to isolate the flames to a gully located behind the sawmill, a move that authorities believe has played a crucial role in preventing further damage to nearby residential and industrial areas.
“While the flames remain active within the isolated zone, fire crews are monitoring the situation closely and working toward full extinguishment. The origin of the fire remains under investigation,” the ministry relayed.
Residents are advised to stay clear of the area while emergency operations continue. Authorities have assured that further updates will be provided as more details become available.
“The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Guyana Fire Service extends sincere thanks and appreciation to all supporting agencies, including Bosai, the Regional Administration, the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, and the many civilians who are assisting in response efforts. Your commitment and coordination have been critical in containing this incident and protecting lives and property,” the ministry said in its statement.
Meanwhile, Linden Mayor Sharma Solomon said Friday, that based on information available, the blaze does not appear to be deliberate as the area had existing environmental concerns.
The Linden Town Council had previously issued warnings to sawmill operators regarding improper waste disposal practices. The council was concerned about waste being dumped into a gully estimated at some 200 feet in depth, which over time had effectively become a large pit filled with flammable wooden materials.
“So, after a period the heat and the temperature would have ignited as far as we were told by the representatives of the Guyana Fire Service, and to date, persons in the vicinity had recognised it was not deliberate but more environmental.”
“This is a very unfortunate matter,” Solomon stated, highlighting the ongoing risk posed by the fire. He called for broader support and assistance as firefighting efforts continue.
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