The failure of administration to arrange a garbage dumping facility here in north Kashmir’s Sopore town has evoked widespread resentment among the locals as heaps of domestic and market are lying scattered across the town.
According to locals, heaps of non-biodegradable waste, especially polythene and plastic, can be seen everywhere on the roads, which not only poses the threat of diseases but has also helped increase stray dog population.
“Foul smell emanating from the garbage dumps lying in the open has made our lives difficult. The Sopore Municipal Corp brings large piles of non-biodegradable garbage, including polythene, plastic, chemicals, medical waste here and leaves it here in the open,” said Qurat Ul Ain, a social activist.
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“Authorities have failed to identify and establish garbage dumping site, which leads to waste being disposed of in irresponsible and hazardous ways. The problem has been worsening with time, with garbage now found dumped on the roads,” Qurat said.
Another resident, Gh Qadir told Good Morning Kashmir that locals threw all types of garbage in the open. There is a serious threat of extension of disease in the areas near garbage dumps.
“While the situation goes on worsening, the administration appears to be in no real hurry to act. We have told people from the municipal department and local residents who repeatedly dispose of this waste here that this is not a dumping site, but they take our plight with deaf ears,” said Gh Qadir.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Sopore, Sajad Ahmad when contacted said they had chosen three places for dumping garbage but the court has not approved them yet because the site is near Wular lake.
“We are aware of the issue and we are working for the solution,” he said, adding that locals in the area should also refrain from dumping the waste here.
