Screenshot from a video shot at the scene of the fire, a few steps from the port of Beirut. (Video X/@HusseinSabralb)
A fire broke out on Monday in a waste sorting area located near a fish market not far from the port of Beirut, the head of the capital's fire department, General Maher Ajouz, confirmed to L'Orient-Le Jour. Firefighters were working to extinguish the flames Monday at noon, according to the fire chief.
"The fire is being brought under control and is far from homes. There is no need to worry," said Colonel Ajouz, also claiming to be unaware of the causes of the fire for the moment.
The fire has caused panic among Beirut residents, who have shared several videos on social media showing columns of smoke coming from the port. Many Beirutis continue to be traumatized by the double explosion at the Port of Beirut on Aug. 4, 2020, which killed more than 235 people and injured 7,000 and destroyed or damaged 77,000 buildings.
This article originally appeared in French in L'Orient-Le Jour.