Jahangeer Ganaie
Shopian, Nov 13: What was once envisioned as a model waste management facility has now become a source of distress for residents of Gund Darvesh, Amerbugh, and adjoining areas in South Kashmir’s Shopian district.
The segregation shed, set up to promote scientific waste management, has instead turned into a dumping site for household garbage and animal carcasses, posing serious health and environmental hazards.
Locals say that the facility, which was meant to improve sanitation, has now become a “nuisance” for residents and commuters alike. “People from nearby villages have converted the segregation shed into an open dumping ground. Every day, heaps of garbage and even carcasses of dead animals are thrown here, spreading unbearable stench throughout the area,” said Gulzar Ahmad Wani, a resident of Gund Darvesh.
He added that the situation has worsened over recent months due to poor supervision by authorities.
“The shed is situated close to the main road. The smell is so strong that it’s difficult for people to pass by. The air is polluted, and we constantly fear the outbreak of diseases,” said another resident, Zameer Ahmad.
He said the foul smell has made life miserable for those living nearby. “School-going children and pedestrians suffer the most. The stench is intolerable, and sometimes we even see animal carcasses lying in the open. This is not just about inconvenience — it’s a public health crisis,” he said.
Children who pass through the area on their way to school said they feel unsafe due to the presence of stray dogs that gather around the waste pile. “Dogs are always present there, and we are scared to cross the area. They could attack us anytime,” said a group of students.
They said that site was cleared several times but later the process of dumping waste here continued as vehicles hired by the RDD department are throwing all waste here.
Residents say they have repeatedly brought the issue to the attention of concerned authorities, but no substantial action has been taken so far. “Officials visit occasionally, click a few photos, and leave — but nothing changes on the ground. We urge the district administration to either relocate the segregation shed or ensure proper management of the waste,” said Sara Begum, another local.
Environmental experts have also sounded the alarm, warning that unscientific waste disposal can lead to the spread of infectious diseases, attract stray animals, and contaminate nearby water sources.
They stressed the need for regular waste collection, proper segregation, and treatment measures to safeguard public health and the environment.
Residents have appealed to the district administration Shopian and BDO concerned to intervene immediately and ensure that the segregation shed is either properly maintained or shifted away from the residential area to prevent further suffering.
