Oinofyta toxic dump claims to be probed
An Athens prosecutor yesterday ordered an investigation into allegations that an illegal landfill near the industrial zone of Oinofyta, in southeastern Viotia, is being used by local manufacturers to dispose of toxic waste. The prosecutor’s order came a week after an investigation by Skai into pollution in the area, particularly the severely contaminated Asopos River, revealed that an illegal dump was in operation. The probe is to focus on allegations by locals of firms discarding toxic waste at the dump. There are reports of frequent cases of spontaneous combustion at the site which, it is feared, is releasing dangerous chemicals into the air. European Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas has criticized authorities for failing to stop local firms from dumping toxic waste into the Asopos, which also supplies Athenians with drinking water.
