GALLERY: Health concerns over poor air quality from raging Pietermaritzburg fire
Residents who live near the New England landfill site on New England Road in Pietermaritzburg, have been complaining about burning eyes and breathing difficulties, as a result of a raging fire at the site.
It's believed the fire started on Friday and has been burning ever since.
Schools in the vicinity were shut due to the health risks, on Monday.
Msunduzi municipality spokesperson, Thobeka Mafumbatha says the city's senior management and department of environmental affairs have met to come up with a plan for the site.
She says a number of pollutants are being monitored, including sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide.
A resident who lives near the dumpsite says her family has been dealing various ailments.
"We all have burning eyes, we got sore chests, and sinus problems. It's been coming and going throughout the day," she said.
Firefighters have been battling the blaze for several days now, and are appealing to the community to help them with supplies to keep them going.
Msunduzi's Mayor says they're working on a long-term solution to tackle fires quickly, after residents complained their health's been affected by the blaze.
Mayor Mzimkhulu Thebolla says efforts to bring the flames under control on Sunday weren't enough which's why members of Working On Fire and other groups have joined the fight.
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