(Wednesday, December 18, 2024)-Liberians woke up on Wednesday morning to the shocking news of a fire engulfing the Capitol Building in Monrovia. The cause of the blaze is still under investigation by state officials.

In response to the incident, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deployed a team of environmental scientists to assess the carbon monoxide pollution caused by the fire. The team, led by EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, included Deputy Executive Director Mr. Dweh Siehwloh Boley, Manage of Environmental Research & Radiation Safety (ERRS) Rafael Ngumbu, and Compliance and Enforcement (C&E)Manager John Jallah.

During their inspection, the EPA team assessed various parts of the building, including the heavily damaged Rotunda, where the joint chambers of the Legislature were burned to ashes.

Speaking to journalists after the tour, Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo expressed deep concern over the extent of the destruction. “We observed areas that are highly polluted, mainly in the Rotunda. The joint chamber was burned to ashes. We have advised the investigation team on safety measures, but the impacts of this damage will be felt for a long time,” he stated.

He emphasized the importance of environmental safety during the ongoing investigation, noting that high levels of carbon monoxide and other pollutants pose risks to those working at the site.

Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the blaze and the full extent of the environmental and structural damage.