Neglected Jhelum channel sparks sanitation crisis in Karfalli Mohalla

Srinagar, Jan 5: The water channel linked to the Jhelum and passing through Karfalli Mohalla in Habba Kadal Srinagar has deteriorated into an open dumping ground due to prolonged neglect, causing growing concern among local inhabitants over sanitation, environmental damage and public health risks.
Originally meant to carry clean flowing water for irrigation and limited domestic use, the channel is now heavily clogged with plastic waste, household garbage and construction material. Inhabitants allege that the lack of regular desilting and cleaning, weak monitoring mechanisms and unchecked dumping by people from nearby localities have rendered the channel nearly non-functional.
According to locals, the obstruction has resulted in stagnant water, an overpowering foul smell and a noticeable rise in mosquito breeding. They said the situation poses serious health hazards, particularly for children, elderly inhabitants and those suffering from respiratory or skin-related ailments. During warmer days, the stench intensifies, forcing families living close to the channel to keep doors and windows shut.
“This channel once served as a lifeline for our locality, providing clean flowing water and supporting daily needs. Today, it has become a source of disease due to official neglect,” said a local. He added that repeated complaints submitted to the concerned departments have failed to yield any tangible response so far. “If this continues, we fear outbreaks of water-borne diseases,” he warned.
Locals have urged the concerned departments and district administration to take immediate corrective measures by removing the accumulated waste, restoring the natural flow of water and ensuring regular maintenance of the channel. They have also called for strict action against those found dumping garbage into the waterway, along with the installation of warning signboards and surveillance to prevent further misuse.
Locals cautioned that continued inaction could lead to long-term environmental damage and serious public health emergencies, stressing that the issue requires urgent attention rather than further neglect. [KNT]