Pulwama, Feb 08 (KNO): Authorities putting in abeyance under construction solid waste management project here in South Kashmir has turned the Circular Road in the main town into a “garbage dump.”
Locals told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the Municipal Committee, after collecting the garbage from various areas of the town, throws it on the Circular Road near Government Degree College (GDC) for Women. “This all important road has turned into a garbage dump,” they said, adding, “Foul and filthy smell emanating from the garbage has engulfed the entire area. If the dumping continues it can lead to an outbreak of an epidemic.”
“Shopkeepers in the area are suffering losses as people want to stay away from the area where garbage is being dumped,” said Zakir Ahmad, a social activist.
He said that the dumping site has made the life of the people residing close to spot hell as they are unable to open their doors and windows.
Javid Ahmad Bhat another local resident said that for the last two years they have been hearing that the site will be shifted soon but till date nothing has been done. “The garbage dumping site has also become a breeding ground for dogs,” he added.
“Despite ample space available at multiple locations, the authorities have chosen to dump garbage in a residential area, causing significant inconvenience to the residents,” Bhat said.
Residents and passersby stated that, despite repeatedly bringing the issue to the attention of the concerned authorities, no action has been taken on the ground.
They demanded immediate intervention from the government to relocate the dumping site, emphasizing the difficulty of living under such conditions.
Deputy Commissioner Pulwama Dr Basharat Qayoom told KNO that the solid waste management project is complete at Newa while a mechanical part is being installed. “The mechanical work was tendered out several times but it hasn't got any response due to which it will be re-tendered on 12th of this month and we are expecting to get a response this time.”
He said that installation process won't take much time and Newa site will become operational soon—(KNO)