Residents complain of exposure to fumes from tyre fire

Reports are emerging of  residents being affected by the noxious fumes from Monday's fire on Westbrook Avenue in Riverton City on Spanish Town Road.

Hundreds of  used tyres caught fire and burned for the entire day sending thick black smoke into the air.

Jacqueline Williams, a resident of  Cooreville Gardens, told RJR News that since Monday evening, the community has been exposed to fumes which have been causing a burning sensation in her throat.

“There is this scent, like fume in the air. It comes up more in the nights. We’re still seeing the fog….it’s hurting our throat and  I can’t get to sleep at nights,” she said.

Williams who is concerned for her family says the effect is worse than during the Riverton Dump fire last month.

NEPA collects air quality samples

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is in the process of  collecting air quality samples along Spanish Town Road following Monday's fire.

Manager for the Air Quality Management Branch at NEPA, Stephen Panton, says the results of samples that will be sent overseas , should be completed in a few weeks.He said the public will be informed when the results can be accessed on NEPA's website.