Budgam, July 12 (JKNS): Mounting piles of garbage across Khansahib town in central Kashmir’s Budgam district have triggered widespread public resentment, with residents accusing the local Municipal Committee of long-standing inaction and negligence.
Reports reaching news agency JKNS that the town has been without a designated dumping site for decades, forcing residents to dispose of waste along roadsides, in open fields, and even near residential areas.
“This has been an unresolved issue for years,” said a local resident. “There is no place to throw waste, and now entire streets stink. Authorities have completely ignored us.”
Residents, particularly those living near busy marketplaces and educational institutions, say that the unchecked garbage has become a serious environmental and health hazard. “Children fall ill frequently due to the unhygienic conditions. Flies, stray dogs, and foul smell have made it unbearable,” said another local.
Locals lament that despite repeated pleas to municipal and district authorities, no action has been taken to identify land for a dumping site or introduce a structured waste disposal system.
“We are not demanding luxuries. We just want a clean place to live,” said one visibly frustrated shopkeeper in the main town area.
The residents have now urged the district administration and the Rural Development Department to take urgent steps for waste management, including allocation of land for a dumping site, regular garbage collection, and proper sanitation facilities.
If not addressed promptly, citizens warn that the situation could spiral into a full-blown health crisis, especially with the summer heat worsening the stench and spread of infections.
Meanwhile, Executive Officer of Khansahib refused to coment on the issue, further fueling public frustration. (JKNS)