Nooitgedacht NV sawmill destroyed by major fire in Paramaribo

A major fire has completely destroyed the Nooitgedacht NV sawmill located on Duisburglaan in Paramaribo. The blaze broke out on the evening of Saturday, September 5, and spread rapidly due to the large quantities of wood and flammable materials on the premises.

Firefighting units responded urgently to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings. While the exact cause of the current fire remains unknown, the incident has raised significant concerns regarding fire prevention and safety protocols. This is not the first time the facility has suffered catastrophic damage; a similar major fire destroyed much of the sawmill and its stock on October 10, 2023, following which questions regarding structural safety measures were raised.

The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the local community and the economy, as many employees face temporary unemployment. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing has indicated its readiness to provide support.