Massive landfill fire in Gurgaon raises health and pollution concerns

Recent investigations have revealed growing concerns over toxic contamination from landfills both in the U.S. and the U.K. In Central Washington, the Rocky Top Environmental landfill is under scrutiny after groundwater tests found PFAS—so-called 'forever chemicals' linked to serious health risks—at levels significantly above EPA safety limits, raising fears about potential contamination of nearby residential wells. Meanwhile, in England, more than 100 old landfill sites potentially containing hazardous materials have flooded since 2000, with many lacking protective linings and situated near communities, parks, and watercourses, significantly increasing the risk of pollutants spreading. Poor historical documentation of landfill contents compounds the issue, leaving authorities unsure of the full extent of the danger, especially as climate change drives more frequent flooding and coastal erosion. Experts warn that these sites, especially in poorer regions, may be leaking hazardous substances such as heavy metals and industrial waste, with insufficient funding for monitoring and remediation. These developments underscore mounting public and environmental health risks and the urgent need for improved landfill management and stricter regulation.