Fire at the former ‘Ilva’ site in Taranto

A fire has broken out at the former ‘Ilva’ plant in Taranto, Italy. No injuries were reported and the situation is under control, according to company sources. The company fire brigade and the external fire brigade of the provincial command were dispatched to the scene. Numerous reports were received by the police from citizens who were concerned about the quality of the air. A strong smell of burning rubber was perceived in some city districts. The Regional Environmental Agency (ARPA) Puglia is currently engaged in the process of verifying the nature of the emissions to ascertain their environmental impact. As the results of the environmental controls are awaited, Stefania Fornaro, the Municipal Councillor for the Environment, has advised the population to keep the windows of their homes closed, as a precautionary measure, while the results are being processed.