Srinagar, Nov 19: As Srinagar administration works toward achieving Smart City status, a long-standing garbage disposal issue continues to plague many residential areas, highlighting a glaring imbalance in sanitation services across the city.
While upscale localities like Rajbagh, Lal Chowk, and Residency Road benefit from regular waste management, neighborhoods such as Rawalpora, Rangreth, Bagh-e-Mehtab, Batamaloo, Qamarwari, and Chanapora grapple with uncollected waste and overflowing bins.
Residents of these underserved areas are expressing growing dissatisfaction with the unreliable waste management system. “We’ve been dealing with this for months. Garbage piles up on the streets, and the trucks hardly show up. It’s an eyesore and a health risk,” said Shahid Ali from Batamaloo. “We end up leaving waste on the streets, hoping it will be cleared,” added Bilal Mir from Chanapora.
This neglect not only affects the city’s cleanliness but also poses significant health risks. “With garbage piling up, it’s only a matter of time before an outbreak happens. Our children are at risk,” said Rubina Mir from Bagh-e-Mehtab.
The disparity between well-maintained upscale areas and neglected neighborhoods has led many residents to question the priorities of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC). “It feels like the posh areas are given all the attention, while the rest of us are ignored,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, a resident of Rangreth.
The lack of designated bins and collection points adds to the difficulty in many areas. “We don’t even have proper bins. What are we supposed to do?” said Aijaz from Peerbagh.
Srinagar generates around 600 metric tons of garbage daily, with the SMC managing to collect about 520 metric tons. According to SMC Joint Commissioner Syed Qasim, the remaining 80 metric tons consists of reusable waste left with households. The city’s waste includes 55% organic and 45% inorganic materials, highlighting the need for efficient segregation and disposal methods.
Dr. Owais Ahmed, Commissioner of SMC, said, “The department is preparing for major cleanliness drives across the city, and we are undergoing an overhaul to improve efficiency.” He urged residents to cooperate with door-to-door waste collection teams and report issues via the SMC helpline.
In 2023, the SMC aimed to create a garbage-free environment by removing dumpsters and bins across the city. Over 150 vehicles were added to its fleet, including modern compactors and light motor vehicles for door-to-door waste collection. Despite these measures, the ground reality remains unchanged in many areas.
Commenting on the garbage disposal issue, SMC Joint Commissioner Syed Qasim said, “We are actively addressing the matter and assure residents that all areas will be covered.”
