Dozens of families in the San Bartolo sector of Barú district are demanding immediate action against persistent toxic smoke from a community landfill. Residents of the Chiriquí Province area report severe health impacts and sleepless nights as fumes intensify after dark.
The local sanitary landfill has caught fire twice already this month, according to community reports. Firefighter units managed to control the most recent flames. The visible fire is gone but a dense, lingering smoke continues to pour from the site, creating an ongoing public health nuisance.
Residents Report Escalating Health Concerns
Affected families say the problem peaks during nighttime and early morning hours. Smoke then concentrates heavily over their homes. This has led to widespread complaints of respiratory irritation, particularly among vulnerable populations. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are suffering the most.
“That smoke harms me. I was recently hospitalized and I am taking medication for my breathing, and that smoke is affecting me quite a lot,” said an elderly area resident. [Translated from Spanish]
Community spokespersons argue the situation now constitutes a clear public health risk. They are calling on competent authorities to find a permanent solution, not just temporary fire control. The deteriorating air quality is eroding their basic quality of life.
Local officials have not yet issued a formal statement on mitigation plans or a timeline for resolution. The community’s immediate demand is for a definitive intervention to stop the smoke at its source and prevent future landfill fires.