KUCHING: A fire destroyed almost 95% of a waste management plant in Jalan Mambong here on Tuesday (Jan 13) afternoon.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department Operations Centre said it received a distress call at about 2.28pm.
The fire involved a plant measuring approximately 150 by 200 feet and was believed to have started outside the premises before spreading into the building.
"The fire was still raging when fire personnel arrived at the scene, and the Operations Commander confirmed the presence of three high-risk chemicals, namely nitric acid, propionic acid and ammonium sulphate, which required strict safety controls throughout the operation.
"The Hazardous Materials Unit (Hazmat) team has been mobilised to provide specialised assistance,” it said in a statement.
Aerial monitoring using drones was also conducted to assess the extent of the fire and assist with tactical planning on the ground.
The statement added that as of 6.40 pm, the fire had been fully brought under control and overhaul work was still ongoing to ensure there was no further danger. — Bernama
