The residents of Pulwama town have voiced strong anger and frustration over the administration’s continued failure to remove the piles of garbage lying along the Circular Road, months after the dumping site was officially closed.
Once a busy and clean route for commuters, the stretch has now turned into a foul-smelling dump yard, causing immense inconvenience to locals, traders, and travelers passing through the area.
Locals told Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that despite several promises by the authorities, no serious action has been taken to clear the accumulated waste, which includes household garbage, plastics, and construction debris. The garbage has become a breeding ground for stray dogs and insects, spreading a nauseating stench throughout the neighborhood.
“The officials had promised to remove the waste soon after closing the site, but months have gone by and nothing has changed,” said Abdul Hameed, a local resident. “We are forced to live with unbearable smell every day. The air here feels polluted, and it seems like the administration just doesn’t care.”
Shopkeepers along the road said that their businesses are suffering due to the filthy conditions. “Customers don’t want to come near this place because of the horrible smell,” said Younis Ahmad, who runs a grocery shop nearby. “Even pedestrians cover their faces while walking through. It’s deeply embarrassing for us as locals and business owners.”
Residents living close to the dump complained that the unhygienic conditions are creating serious health hazards, especially for children and the elderly. “Flies and mosquitoes have made life miserable,” said Haleema, who lives near the garbage site. “We can’t even open our windows or hang clothes outside. The authorities must act now before diseases start spreading.”
People have appealed to the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama and other higher officials to personally intervene and ensure that the garbage is cleared immediately. “If the administration could close the dumping site after our protests, it should also ensure that it’s cleaned properly. Leaving it like this only makes things worse,” the residents said.—(KNO)
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