DHK for scientific disposal of rotten apples along Rambiara embankments

Pulwama, May 03: Director Horticulture Kashmir (DHK), Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, on Friday conducted a visit to the Rambiara embankments near the Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) Lassipora, in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district , responding to reports of rotten apple dumping there.
Following directives from the Principal Secretary to the Government, Shailendra Kumar, DHK issued immediate instructions for the scientific disposal of the decaying organic matter.
During the visit, DHK observed approximately half a kilometre of the embankments littered with rotten apples, primarily of C grade quality, which had become a nuisance to the public.
Recognising the environmental and health hazards posed by such practices, DHK emphasised the need to halt the unhealthy practice of dumping waste along water bodies, citing relevant environmental regulations discouraging pollution of water sources.
To address the issue, DHK directed the President of the Industrial Association Lassipora and other concerned officials to ensure the immediate removal of the rotten apples using earthmovers and to dispose of them properly.
Furthermore, DHK said that in future they may permit Controlled Atmosphere (CA) stores to store only high-grade (A grade) apples, reducing the likelihood of rot and minimising waste.
Accompanied by the Chief Horticulture Officer (CHO) Pulwama, Javid Ahmad Bhat, DHK outlined plans to enforce approved mechanisms for waste disposal by CA store owners, prohibiting the dumping of apples along the Rambiara embankments in the future.
The DHK also emphasised the importance of utilising available Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) facilities at the IGC Lassipora, urging industrialists to make use of the facility for a fee.
The visit and subsequent directives come in response to earlier reports by Rising Kashmir highlighting the unhygienic disposal of rotten apples along the Rambiara embankments near IGC Lassipora.
The local residents have appreciated the proactive approach by DHK to address their environmental concerns and promote responsible waste management practices within the horticulture industry.