Jahangeer Ganaie
Ganderbal, Jun 28: A massive stockpile of medicines worth lakhs of rupees was found dumped in a forest canal in the Gundrehman area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, triggering alarm among locals and authorities alike.
The shocking discovery was made by residents who noticed large quantities of medicine boxes and strips discarded in and around the canal. Realising the potential danger, they immediately alerted officials.
A team from the Drug Control Department Ganderbal, led by Drug Inspector Bilal Ahmad, rushed to the site and conducted a detailed inspection. “We have initiated an investigation. Samples have been collected, and efforts are underway to trace the origin of these medicines. Action will be taken against those found guilty,” Ahmad said.
The illegal dumping has raised serious concerns over negligence in the disposal of medicines, posing significant risks to both public health and the environment.
Locals demanded a thorough probe into the incident and action against the involved persons. “This is not just the loss of expensive medicines but a major risk to our environment and drinking water sources,” said a resident.
“Medicines can contain harmful chemicals that may prove dangerous if they seep into water bodies or the soil,” another local added.
An official from the Drug Control Department, Ganderbal, told KNO that there are two major losses in such acts: one is the financial loss of the dumped medicines, and the second—and more dangerous—is the environmental hazard it creates.
The official said a standard procedure exists for handling expired medicines. “Medical shop owners are directed to segregate medicines at least three months before their expiry so they can be returned to the manufacturing company,” the official said, adding that bypassing this protocol can lead to legal consequences.
“Whosoever is found involved in this act will face strict action as per law,” she assured. (KNO)
