Khajod Dump Fire Chokes Surat Residents, Election Boycott Warning

Surat | Gujarat — Even as the Surat Municipal Corporation continues to earn accolades in national cleanliness rankings, the reality unfolding at the Khajod dumping site paints a starkly different picture. For the past ten days, a raging landfill fire has blanketed nearby residential areas in thick, toxic smoke, leaving thousands of residents gasping for breath and fuelling public anger just as civic election campaigning gathers pace.

The crisis has hit societies near Sarsana particularly hard, with residents of Agam Heights and Sunflower describing their lives as a “mini lockdown” due to the relentless smoke.

Forced to Wear Masks Inside Homes

For many residents, daily life has become a health emergency. Windows remain shut, outdoor activity has stopped and stepping outside without face covering feels unsafe.

“I am a senior citizen and I am having difficulty breathing,” said Prakashbhai, a resident of Agam Heights. “For ten days, the smoke has been so intense that opening windows is impossible. Even stepping outside feels dangerous.”

The persistent fumes have sparked fears of long-term health consequences, especially for children and the elderly.

Election Boycott Threat From 2,000 Voters

Frustration has now turned into political protest. Residents of Agam Heights—home to around 550 flats and nearly 2,000 voters—have unanimously warned of an election boycott if authorities fail to provide a permanent solution.

“First put out the fire, then come asking for votes,” residents said in a collective statement. “If they don’t care about our lives, we don’t care about their votes.”

Locals say no corporator has visited the area despite the severity of the situation, raising concerns that the issue could significantly impact the upcoming civic elections.

Allegations of a “Waste Scam”

Residents have also raised serious allegations about the repeated fires at the dumping site, claiming such incidents occur every 15–20 days. They have demanded an investigation into whether the fires are accidental or deliberately triggered.

“Crores are spent on waste disposal contracts. Then why is garbage being burnt repeatedly?” asked a resident. “Is this a ‘fire scam’ to show reduced waste? SMC must investigate immediately.”

Life Comes to a Standstill

Tajinderbhai, president of Sunflower 1-A society, described the situation as unbearable. “We are living in hellish conditions. Children cannot play outside and the elderly are panicking. Even driving out requires covering our noses. Is this what a smart city looks like?” he said.

Another resident, Harshbhai, questioned the city’s cleanliness claims and the spirit of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. “Children can’t breathe and diseases are increasing. If the civic body cannot maintain cleanliness, how can citizens do it?” he asked.

Residents Ready for Legal Action

More than 3,000 families living around Khajod say they are prepared to launch protests and pursue legal action if the fire is not extinguished urgently and scientific waste management methods are implemented.

For many, the choking smoke has overshadowed the city’s awards and achievements. With elections approaching, residents say the message to authorities is clear: action must replace assurances before the ballot boxes arrive.