Karnah, June 22: Once known for its pristine streams and lush green forests, Karnah is now filled with filth and foul odors, as toxic water flows through its once-clear waterways. From Nachiyan to Sarmapari, and from Sadhpora to Teetwal, environmental pollution has taken hold across the region. The Qazi Nag and Batah Moji streams, whose waters were once used for drinking by locals, have now turned into toxic drains.
Every day, hundreds of tons of garbage including polythene and plastic are being dumped into these streams and surrounding forests from homes, shops, and markets. This has not only disrupted the natural flow of water but has also polluted the surrounding air.
Butchers along the banks of Tangdhar slaughter animals directly into the streams, letting the blood mix into the water, which also carries dead animals, rotten vegetables, and other foul smelling waste. The condition of villages like Nachiyan, Bagh Bala, Haji Nar, Gomal, Tangdhar, Khodpara, Bukhayan, Lontha, Kundi, Dildar, Chani Pura, Hajitrah, Chamkote, Chitrakote, Teetwal, and Haridal has become increasingly dire. The drains and irrigation canals in these areas are now filled with waste instead of clean water.
Local people told KNS that a few years ago, there was a demand to include Tangdhar within the municipal limits. A project report was even prepared, and a recycling plant was constructed. However, since 2020, the plant has remained locked, and the Department of Rural Development has become a silent spectator.
A year ago, the department hired a private company that was instructed to collect waste from Tangdhar to Teetwal and dispose of it at designated departmental sheds, from where it would be transported and properly discarded. Unfortunately, that project also failed shortly after its launch.
Senior residents of the valley express their sorrow, saying, “The Karnah we knew is now just a dream. Tears come to our eyes when we see what Karnah has become today.” They have urged the government to establish a scientific waste disposal system to ease the suffering of the people.