Towseef Bhat
Anantnag, Sep 24: Unchecked garbage dumping along the Achabal road near a forested area has raised concerns among locals over sanitation, environmental protection and the impact on the region’s tourism image.
Heaps of waste have accumulated along the roadside on the route towards Achabal, Kokernag and Daksum, with residents complaining of foul smell, unhygienic conditions and deterioration of the area’s appearance.
Locals have also expressed concern over the dumping of plastic, food waste and other material close to the forest, apprehending that it could affect the surrounding ecosystem and wildlife.
The site falls along a route frequently used by tourists visiting Achabal, Kokernag and Daksum, prompting residents to say that the garbage presents an unpleasant picture of the otherwise scenic area.
Residents said they have repeatedly brought the issue to the attention of the concerned authorities and urged them to remove the accumulated waste and put in place a regular waste collection and disposal mechanism.
“We have repeatedly requested the authorities to remove this garbage, but the problem continues. The site is close to the forest, and we are worried about its impact on the environment and wildlife,” a local resident said.
The residents have appealed to the administration to take immediate action, ensure scientific disposal of the waste and regularly monitor the site to prevent further dumping.
