A potential catastrophe was narrowly avoided yesterday in Amoronankona when a fire involving trash, fanned by strong winds, broke out just a few meters from a gas station.
The blaze caused panic yesterday in Amoronankona, near the Jovena gas station and the Fisandratana bus station. Around 11:00 AM, thick black smoke rose over the neighborhood, visible even from the main road.
The fire originated from a waste dump belonging to a Chinese-owned company specializing in the manufacture of undergarments and other goods. According to initial witness reports, children entered the premises through a poorly secured gate and set the trash on fire before fleeing the scene.
Precautionary Measures
The flames quickly rose above the barbed-wire fence. Strong winds scattered sparks, raising fears that the fire would spread to 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 quickly,” said Zo, a team leader at the Jovena Amoronankona station. He explained that fuel trucks parked on the premises were moved immediately and standard safety protocols were activated: “We halted all fuel distribution, cut off the electricity, and prepared the fire extinguishers.”
Two fire trucks arrived at the scene, supported by local police and gendarmerie. The flames were brought under control by noon, without breaching the station’s perimeter. “The flames were impressive and the sparks were dangerous,” Zo continued, highlighting the fear felt by employees and customers alike. Several motorists who had come to refuel left the station in haste upon seeing the smoke.
At the site, journalists noted the reluctance of the Chinese company’s employees to comment. However, one worker confirmed that “it was not a building that burned, but rather waste.” A factory manager was later questioned by the police.
There were no casualties, and property damage remained limited. Nevertheless, authorities have prohibited the company from further storing waste on the site, mandating that all waste be transferred to Ambohimangakely starting this Monday.
The presence of police, gendarmes, and concerned residents underscored the widespread fear, and the situation could have turned tragic had the flames reached the gas station.
By Gustave Mparany
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-22 06:30:38 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/amoronankona-un-incendie-seme-la.html