Garbage dumping near Yateem Trust triggers health concerns in Pazalpora Bijbehara
Residents accuse authorities of inaction despite repeated complaints
Anantnag: The residents of Pazalpora area in Bijbehara have raised serious concerns over the unchecked dumping of garbage near the Yateem Trust premises, alleging that the practice has turned the locality into an open dumping ground, posing grave health and environmental risks to residents and orphaned children housed at the trust.
According to locals, heaps of household waste and other refuse are being dumped regularly close to the Yateem Trust, causing foul smell, attracting stray dogs and insects, and creating unhygienic conditions in the area.
There is a government school and main Jamia Masjid close to the site where garbage is being dumped and people close to the area are suffering.
The situation, they say, has worsened over the past few weeks, making life miserable for residents living nearby as well as for the children residing in the trust.
“The stench is unbearable, especially during the daytime. Children fall sick frequently and we fear the outbreak of diseases,” said a local resident, adding that repeated appeals to concerned departments have yielded no results so far.
Another resident expressed anger over what he termed as official apathy. “We have informed the Municipal Committee Bijbehara several times and also brought the issue to the notice of the concerned BDO, but no concrete action has been taken. Are we supposed to live like this forever?” he questioned.
People associated with the Yateem Trust Bijbehara said that dumping garbage near an institution that shelters orphaned children is not only irresponsible but inhumane. “This place is meant to provide a safe and healthy environment for children who have already suffered a lot in life. Dumping garbage near the trust endangers their health and dignity,” a trust official said.
He further said that despite bringing the issue to the notice of the Municipal Committee Bijbehara and the Block Development Officer concerned, the problem continues unabated. “We expected swift action, but unfortunately nothing has been done as of now. We appeal to the higher authorities to take cognizance of the matter on priority,” he added.
Residents have demanded immediate intervention from the district administration to ensure proper waste management, removal of existing garbage, and strict action against those dumping waste illegally near residential areas and social institutions.
“If authorities remain silent, we will be forced to protest. Cleanliness and public health are basic rights,” said another local, urging the administration to treat the issue with urgency before the situation turns into a major health hazard.
The residents and trust authorities have appealed to higher-ups to conduct an on-ground inspection and put an end to the illegal dumping to restore cleanliness and ensure a safe environment for all.
