A destructive fire in Lima, Peru, has been burning since Monday, leading to the collapse of four buildings. Over 400 firefighters are responding to the ongoing blaze, which has no known origin. Authorities emphasize the unlicensed status of the warehouse where the fire began, raising concerns about public safety.
A significant fire has erupted in Lima, Peru, starting on a Monday in the Barrios Altos neighborhood. As reported by firefighters on Thursday, the blaze continues to rage uncontrollably, leading to the collapse of four nearby buildings. Despite the persistent inferno, no casualties have been reported. However, two additional structures are at risk of failure due to structural weaknesses, as warned by Eduardo Celis, a divisional commander in the local fire brigade.
The firefighting response has been substantial, involving over 50 tankers and approximately 400 firefighters who have been engaged in efforts to quell the flames since the outbreak of the fire. Although firefighters remain focused on extinguishing the blaze, the origin remains undetermined. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have started in an eight-story warehouse used for various products served by nearby street vendors in the historic part of Lima called Mesa Redonda.
Lima officials noted that the warehouse where the fire initiated was operating without a license and had previously been shut down on three occasions for safety violations. The area is known for its bustling street vendor activity, necessitating accessible warehouse spaces for stocking purposes. This incident echoes a tragic event from December 2001 when a devastating fire claimed the lives of 277 individuals in Lima.
In summary, a severe fire in Lima’s Barrios Altos has led to the collapse of multiple buildings, with ongoing firefighting efforts involving hundreds of responders. The unlicensed warehouse where it began remains under investigation, underscoring the safety risks associated with non-compliant structures in densely populated areas. Authorities continue to address the aftermath of this emergency, revisiting past tragedies to prevent recurrence.
Original Source: torontosun.com
