A disaster was narrowly averted yesterday in Amoronankona when a waste fire, fanned by fierce winds, broke out just meters from a gas station. A massive pile of waste from a neighboring factory caught fire behind the station.
The blaze triggered panic near the Jovena gas station and Fisandratana bus terminal. Around 11 a.m., thick black smoke rose above the neighborhood, visible from the main road. The fire originated from a waste depot belonging to a Chinese company specializing in underwear and various garment manufacturing.
According to initial reports, children allegedly entered the premises through a poorly secured gate and set the fire before fleeing.
The flames quickly spread beyond the barbed-wire topped fence. Strong winds scattered sparks, raising fears of spread toward the gas station located about fifty meters away. "It was far too close to our station. The fire was burning intensely and sparks were flying everywhere. We distribute flammable products here, so we had to act fast," said Zo, team leader at Jovena Amoronankona.
He explained that fuel tankers parked on the lot were urgently relocated and all precautions taken: "We immediately stopped distribution, cut electricity, and prepared fire extinguishers."
Two fire trucks arrived with police and gendarmes. Flames were controlled by noon without crossing the fence. "The flames were impressive and the sparks dangerous," Zo continued, noting the fear felt by employees and customers. Several motorists left the station hastily upon seeing the smoke.
Journalists noted reluctance from the Chinese company's employees to comment. One worker confirmed "it was waste that burned, not a building." A factory manager was questioned by police.
The incident caused no casualties and only limited material damage. Authorities nonetheless banned the company from storing waste on the site, requiring transfer to Ambohimangakely starting Monday. The presence of police, gendarmes, and residents showed widespread fear—it could have turned tragic had flames reached the gas station.
Gustave Mparany