A massive fire at the main landfill near Soran has continued for two days without being controlled. Ten firefighting teams have battled the flames, but the fire still burns fiercely due to the area’s rough landscape.
The fire began on August 1, 2025, at the Bapashtiyan landfill near Soran. Since then, teams from Soran’s Civil Defense have tried nonstop to contain the blaze. So far, their efforts have failed, and the fire keeps spreading.
Thick smoke and a strong, unpleasant smell have reached nearby towns. Residents in Soran, Rawanduz, and Khalifan are especially worried about the health impact. Many fear long-term environmental damage as well.
Rwand Haudiyani, spokesperson for the civil defense, said the cause of the fire remains unknown. He added that despite ongoing efforts from ten teams, the fire remains out of control due to its difficult location and size.
The Bapashtiyan landfill handles roughly 300 tons of garbage every day from the Soran Independent Administration. Experts now warn that the smoke could harm public health, especially people with breathing problems. The smoke has already created serious concern among locals.