A major fire broke out at the Moove factory, which is controlled by Cosan, on the Island of Governador, Rio de Janeiro, on Saturday, October 8. The blaze was first reported around 12:36 PM and has quickly escalated to large proportions, prompting immediate action from local firefighters.
According to reports, approximately 65 firefighters from six different stations are battling the flames at the facility located on Rua Campo da Ribeira, 51. The fire is currently confined to the Moove property, and the company has assured the public and its stakeholders, stating, “All necessary safety protocols are being applied. So far, there are no recorded injuries.”
The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it has created significant concern among local residents, evidenced by the thick plume of black smoke visible from kilometers away. Residents near the factory have been advised by the Fire Department to evacuate their homes due to the potential hazards presented by the smoke. Eyewitness accounts also report hearing explosions coming from the site, which have exacerbated fears and led to anxiety among nearby inhabitants. “Smoke has spread across the island, and there were reports of explosions,” noted local news sources.
Firefighters are employing cooling and containment strategies to prevent the blaze from spreading beyond the factory's premises. They have utilized techniques such as smothering the flames and cooling surrounding areas to minimize risk to the community. “Military agents are acting to contain the fire,” said officials from the Rio de Janeiro Fire Department, confirming the commitment to controlling the situation and ensuring public safety.
Even as the crew works tirelessly—exercising caution and employing their training—the situation remains fluid, and updates from Moove are expected as firefighting efforts progress. The factory, which is involved with the production and distribution of lubricants, sits close to the Tom Jobim International Airport, but as of now, there have been no reported disruptions to airport operations.
The Moove company, troubled yet resolute, sent out initial statements to media outlets and stakeholders, conveying their commitment to safety and vigilance during this incident. “We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available,” they stated. The firm has decisively communicated to the public their priority is ensuring no one has been harmed during the firefighting endeavors. All eyes are on the firefighters as they navigate the challenges of this significant emergency.
Local communities are eagerly awaiting more information as the situation develops. Many have taken to social media to share images of the smoke billowing from the fire zone, raising awareness of the incident's severity. Some residents expressed gratitude to the firefighters for their rapid response to what could have been a far more devastating incident.
This fire serves as yet another reminder of the potential dangers associated with industrial facilities and the importance of well-prepared emergency response systems. For now, there are no injuries reported, which is undoubtedly good news amid the chaos. Residents and authorities will remain vigilant, hoping the situation can be brought under control without any adverse consequences.