A violent fire broke out today at the Chimpex plant in Caivano, located in the Pascarola industrial area, raising significant alarm among local residents and authorities. The incident, which occurred around 4:40 PM on April 9, 2025, produced a towering column of black smoke visible from several kilometers away, affecting nearby municipalities such as Capodrise, Marcianise, Recale, Casagiove, Aversa, Acerra, and Sant’Antimo.
Firefighters have been battling the blaze for hours, deploying teams from Marcianise, Aversa, and Afragola, along with specialized Nbcr (Nuclear Biological Chemical and Radiological) experts. Fortunately, all approximately 70 employees present at the facility managed to escape before the flames spread, and as of now, no injuries have been reported.
The Chimpex plant, which specializes in processing chemical solvents, has a history of environmental concerns. Just months prior, on January 20, 2025, the facility was seized by authorities due to illegal dumping of chemicals into the Regi Lagni, a situation that had led to the plant being placed under judicial administration.
As firefighters continue to work on extinguishing the fire, the presence of seven silos containing highly flammable solvents has complicated their efforts, raising fears of potential explosions. The local government and emergency services have initiated evacuation protocols for the surrounding area, and residents have been urged to keep doors and windows closed to avoid exposure to harmful smoke.
Authorities are also conducting air quality checks to assess the potential environmental impact of the fire. The regional health authority, ASL, has recommended precautionary measures for residents in nearby areas, including:
- Avoiding prolonged stays in open spaces until the emergency subsides.
- Thoroughly washing fruits, vegetables, and greens before consumption.
- Closing all windows, doors, and ventilation openings.
- Turning off air conditioning and ventilation systems.
- If near smoke, covering the nose and mouth with a damp cloth and seeking shelter indoors.
Local mayors have been proactive in addressing the situation, with Marcianise's Mayor Antonio Trombetta issuing a directive for residents to remain indoors. Similar advisories have been issued by mayors from Capodrise, Santa Maria Capua Vetere, Curti, San Prisco, Cesa, Macerata, Gricignano, Casaluce, Maddaloni, Orta di Atella, Sant'Arpino, and Carinaro. In Capodrise, the parish priest, Don Giuseppe Di Bernardo, even suspended afternoon mass to protect congregants from potential exposure to toxic fumes.
Gianpiero Zinzi, a regional deputy and coordinator for the League party, expressed his concern over the unfolding situation. He stated, "I am following with apprehension the developments of the fire that broke out inside a chemical factory in Caivano. I am in contact with the Prefecture and local authorities monitoring the situation. In the coming days, I will personally visit the company and the affected municipalities." He praised the firefighters for their efforts, highlighting the importance of their work in safeguarding the industrial area and its workers.
As the firefighting efforts continue, the community remains on high alert, with many businesses in the industrial area opting to close as a precautionary measure. The incident has reignited discussions about the environmental challenges faced by the industrial zone between Caivano and Marcianise, which has long been criticized for its high-impact facilities and regulatory oversight difficulties.
Authorities are investigating the exact causes of the fire and the potential consequences for air quality and public health. The situation is fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
This incident underscores the critical need for rigorous monitoring and management of chemical industries to prevent emergencies that could jeopardize public health and the environment. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this fire, there is a collective hope for swift resolution and adequate support for those affected.
