WILLEMSTAD – A company that stored hazardous chemicals in a residential area of Rooi Santu was operating without the knowledge of the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN), raising concerns about oversight and coordination between government agencies.
The revelation emerged from answers provided by GMN Minister Tyron Boekhoudt to questions submitted in Parliament following the major fire that broke out on May 12.
According to the minister, GMN had no record of the chemical storage operation and was therefore unable to conduct inspections or monitor activities at the site before the incident occurred.
The fire, which erupted in a shipping container used to store industrial chemicals, prompted a large emergency response and forced residents in the surrounding neighborhood to temporarily leave their homes. Authorities also closed off the area as thick smoke spread across the community.
Investigators later determined that the container held several chemical substances, including chlorine, hydrochloric acid, and carbon dioxide.
Although the company involved, CurChem, reportedly possessed a business permit issued by the Ministry of Economic Development, it did not have the environmental permits required for storing hazardous materials.
The incident has highlighted what officials describe as shortcomings in communication and information-sharing between government ministries responsible for licensing and regulatory oversight.
In response, GMN has indicated that efforts are underway to strengthen monitoring procedures and improve enforcement related to the storage and handling of dangerous substances.
The fire caused damage beyond the storage site itself. Nearby vegetation was affected, windows in surrounding properties reportedly cracked due to the intense heat, and residents were required to clean air-conditioning systems contaminated by smoke and particles. Swimming pools in the area were also impacted.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire. The inquiry is being conducted by the Fire Department in cooperation with GMN inspectors and an environmental specialist.
The case has renewed discussion about industrial safety, environmental protection, and the adequacy of existing controls governing the storage of hazardous materials near residential communities.