After a major fire broke out under the 10 Freeway in Los Angeles, a California program that leases land under freeways is now facing scrutiny. The fire, which was determined to be arson, caused severe damage to the freeway and is expected to keep it closed for weeks.

The land where the fire occurred was rented out by a Calabasas businessman who illegally sublet it to small businesses. Many of these businesses were operated by immigrants who were struggling to make a living. The renters had no fire alarms or sprinklers in their makeshift offices, which contributed to the devastation caused by the fire.

The landlord, Apex, owned by Ahmad Anthony Nowaid, had failed to pay rent on the property for more than a year and owed $78,000. Caltrans, the agency that owns the land, was suing Apex for back rent. This property was one of five that Caltrans was attempting to evict Apex and another Nowaid company from.

This incident has brought attention to the California program that leases land under freeways. Questions are being raised about the oversight and safety measures in place for these leased properties. Authorities are calling for a review of the program to prevent future incidents like this from occurring.