Srinagar, May 30: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari has expressed concern over the unbearable stink emanating from the dumping ground in Srinagar’s Achan area, saying that rising temperatures have worsened the situation and made life miserable for local residents and those living in nearby areas.
In a statement issued here, he said people are finding it difficult to breathe due to the bad smell coming from the site. In addition to the stink, insects flying around the area are posing health risks as potential carriers of diseases, he added.
Bukhari urged the government to take serious measures to develop a modern waste management facility. As a short-term measure, he called for the immediate spraying of disinfectants at the dumping site to eliminate the smell and control its impact on public health.
The Apni Party Chief said, “Local residents of Achan have informed me that, with rising temperatures, the dumping site is emitting an unbearable smell, making life miserable for them and those living in nearby areas. What is even more concerning is that the concerned department has failed to take even the basic step of spraying disinfectants on this mountain of garbage to control the stink and reduce its impact on public health.”
Bukhari called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to personally step in and address the issue. He said, “Since the Chief Minister also holds the Urban Development portfolio, it is his responsibility to address this issue. I strongly urge that a proper, modern waste management facility be established, and that disinfectants be sprayed at the dumping site immediately as a short-term solution.”
“As the Achan dumping site is located near SKIMS, and not only the local population but also those living in nearby areas are affected by the stench. This situation impacts not only public health but also the environment. It has been proven that this garbage dump poses significant health risks, including the emission of methane gas and groundwater contamination,” Bukhari said. “Therefore, this is a grave matter that requires urgent attention from none other than the Chief Minister himself. Immediate measures must be taken, especially in view of the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha.”
