Budgam, Feb 16: Sukhnag Nallah, once a clean and fresh water body, has been polluted due to unchecked waste dumping at many places and with locals alleging official neglect.
The Nallah originates from Tosamaidan area and flows through several villages like Arizal, Khag, Beerwah, Magam and Narbal, before merging in the Jhelum River.
Residents recall a time when the water was so pure they could drink directly from it. But now, the stream emits a foul smell and appears dirty, making it unsafe for use.
“We used to drink water from this Nallah, but now it is full of garbage. No one cares about it anymore,” said Abdul Rehman Marazi, a 65-year-old local resident of Narbal.
Locals said that nearby shops, hotels, and homes are dumping waste directly into the water of the nallah, worsening the problem.
“There are dustbins but people don’t use them. Outsiders also come and throw their garbage around the nallah, so it’s turning into a drain,” said Mohammad Amin, a shopkeeper.
He said despite the fact that thousands of tourists and travelers pass by this area daily, the authorities have failed to address the pollution.
“It is shocking that such an important issue is being ignored. No one cleans this mess,” said a resident.
Locals have complained multiple times to the Tehsildar and even submitted applications to the Masjid Committee to raise awareness, but no serious action has been taken.
Block Development Officer (BDO), Narbal, said a district-level clean-up plan will be initiated soon. “While some awareness programs have already started, further steps depend on district authorities,” he said.
“We have told people to remove these pipes. A survey will be conducted, and if they don’t obey, strict action will be taken,” the BDO said.
“If people don’t listen, strict action will be taken,” officials said. Locals hope that authorities will implement concrete measures to restore Sukhnag Nallah to its lost glory.
