Illegal Landfill Shut Down in Panama

Previously, residents near the illegal landfill had denounced health issues and environmental pollution from smoke generated by the incineration of hazardous materials. An illegal solid waste landfill, which was also used to burn all kinds of materials, was shut down by officials from the Arraiján municipality in the Cerro Silvestre area, West Panama province. According to neighbors, materials are incinerated at this illegal landfill to extract the metal they contain. This situation was reported to various government agencies responsible for health and the environment, although no corrective measures have yet been taken. During an inspection of the site by the sanitation judge and municipal inspectors, two people were found dumping waste, for which they were fined in accordance with current environmental regulations. A similar situation is reported in the Playa Chiquita area, La Chorrera district, where residents have long been complaining about the burning of tires to extract the metal. One of those affected stated that her home is 'invaded by smoke' every time waste is illegally set on fire, and sometimes this lasts for several days.