The Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labour is exploring the possibility of setting up a field hospital in Commewijne. The reason is the persistent smoke nuisance resulting from grass and rubbish fires, which has caused residents to experience health complaints in recent days.
Minister André Misiekaba recently announced this in De Nationale Assemblée (DNA, Suriname’s parliament). According to the minister, it is still unclear how long the smoke nuisance will persist. It is therefore being considered whether a temporary field hospital can be set up, so that residents with health complaints can receive medical assistance more quickly and easily.
Misiekaba expressed concern about the many fires currently occurring in the country. “The entire country is practically on fire,” the minister said. According to him, irresponsible individuals are taking advantage of the persistent drought to burn waste, resulting in severe smoke nuisance. Although fines apply for the illegal burning of waste, enforcement is difficult, according to the minister. Offenders must be caught in the act, which is difficult in practice.
The minister stressed that the Korps Brandweer Suriname (KBS, Suriname Fire Service), despite its limited capacity, is making every effort to bring the situation under control. The Ministry of Defence and the Nationaal Coördinatiecentrum voor Rampenbeheersing (NCCR, National Disaster Management Coordination Centre) are also involved in relief efforts in Commewijne.
Two people taken to the Emergency Department
According to Misiekaba, most residents who experienced health complaints sought medical facilities in Commewijne on their own initiative. Two people had to go to the Emergency Department. As it is unclear how long the situation will continue, consideration is being given to setting up a field hospital alongside the existing medical facilities. This should improve access to medical care for affected residents.
Not yet a disaster situation
Misiekaba has meanwhile held consultations with various relevant agencies on tackling the fires and the consequences for public health. According to the minister, there is as yet no officially declared disaster situation. However, he stressed that the government does not underestimate the seriousness of the situation. “We do not underestimate the matter and will continue to closely monitor the situation,” Misiekaba said.
