(Montreal) The Nordic Kraft plant, which was grazed by flames during the major forest fires that recently surrounded the municipality of Lebel-sur-Quévillon, in the Nord-du-Québec region, is authorized to restart its operations from this Wednesday.
The pasta factory is owned by Chantiers Chibougamau and is one of the largest employers in the town of two thousand people. It was the subject of an investment of more than 400 million in 2017.
A few weeks ago, the flames approached only a few hundred meters from the factory buildings.
On the other hand, the municipality of Lebel-sur-Quévillon announced that the Comtois sawmill of Produits Forestiers Résolu began its pre-start-up activities last Monday.
Meanwhile, city officials announced on Tuesday that three of the fires surrounding the city remained contained, but weather forecasts for winds and drought could reignite the fires. Watering operations by air tanker and by ground teams continued.
Firefighters from the United States and South Korea arrived on Tuesday. Due to the presence of 300 firefighters and specialists at the community centre, access to the center and to the town hall is restricted.
On Wednesday, it is still forbidden to light open fires, to make fires with or without spark arresters, or to launch fireworks in Lebel-sur-Quévillon. Access to the forest in the sector remained prohibited.
Thursday, the municipal campsite should reopen its doors.