Beirut, Lebanon (Enmaeya News) — Lebanese MPs have raised alarms over a “ticking time bomb” in Beirut, as 150,000 tons of asbestos-contaminated waste remain stored in a building in the Karantina area.

MPs Melhem Khalaf and Najat Saliba submitted a written question to the government through the Speaker of Parliament, highlighting the serious public health and environmental risks posed by the hazardous, carcinogenic materials.

The lawmakers warned that airborne asbestos particles could enter the human body and cause fatal cancers, emphasizing the urgent need for government action to protect residents of Karantina and surrounding neighborhoods.

They called on authorities to clarify the measures taken to address the waste, identify the responsible official body, and provide a clear timeline for cleanup. They also requested information on whether funding has been allocated from the state budget or international aid to tackle the issue.

In addition, MPs urged the launch of a comprehensive scientific and medical study, along with a free health screening program for residents at risk.

This warning underscores the growing concern over asbestos waste management in Lebanon and the potential long-term consequences for public health and the environment.