Shopian, June 18 (JKNS): Residents of Shamshipora and adjoining villages have expressed serious concern over the growing accumulation of garbage near Shamshipora Bridge, where an important public transport stop is located.
Locals told news agency JKNS, the site has gradually turned into an open dumping ground as people continue to dispose of household waste, animal waste and other refuse there on a daily basis.
The location serves as a major public transport point where passenger vehicles, shared taxis (Sumos), buses and school buses stop to pick up and drop off passengers travelling to and from Shopian. Hundreds of commuters, including schoolchildren, use the stop every day.
However, residents said the growing piles of garbage have made the area unhygienic, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and passengers waiting at the site.
They said the foul smell emanating from the accumulated waste has become unbearable, while the garbage has also attracted a large number of stray dogs, posing a safety risk, particularly to children on their way to school.
Residents further alleged that people from Shamshipora, Amshipora, Dangerpora and several nearby villages, as well as some from other areas, bring garbage in vehicles and dump it at the same location.
They said waste generated after weddings and other social gatherings is also being disposed of there, worsening the situation with each passing day.
Locals fear that if the issue is not addressed immediately, it could lead to serious environmental and public health hazards. They appealed to the public to avoid dumping waste at the site and instead use designated waste disposal facilities.
The residents urged the District Administration Shopian to immediately remove the accumulated garbage and ensure that the area is cleaned without further delay.
They also requested the administration to prevent further dumping, maintain regular sanitation measures and take necessary steps to keep the location clean.
The residents said restoring cleanliness at this important public transport stop is essential for the safety, health and convenience of commuters, schoolchildren and the general public. (JKNS)