Illegal plastic dumping mars Gumbroo Tosamaidan tourist road

Budgam, Jan 8: Illegal dumping of plastic waste and garbage along the Gumbroo Tosamaidan tourist road connecting Khag to Magam has emerged as a serious safety and environmental concern, drawing sharp criticism from locals and commuters.
Large heaps of plastic waste have been dumped at multiple points along the roadside, severely affecting the natural landscape of the area, which is known for its scenic and ecological significance. The unchecked dumping has not only degraded the visual appeal of the tourist route but has also created hazardous conditions for pedestrians, motorists, and visitors.
Inhabitants of the Khag area have expressed strong resentment over what they described as gross negligence and irresponsible behaviour by those dumping waste on public roads. Locals said the practice has gradually intensified and, if left unaddressed, could cause long-term environmental damage.
Locals warned that the accumulated garbage has attracted a growing number of stray dogs, increasing the risk of attacks and road accidents, particularly during early morning and evening hours. “The road has become unsafe due to massive garbage dumping. Walking or travelling through this stretch has become frightening,” they said, urging authorities to intervene without delay.
Locals stressed that plastic pollution has crossed a critical threshold and is now posing a direct threat to human safety as well as to the fragile environment of the Tosamaidan region.
Locals have urged the government and concerned departments to take immediate cognizance of the issue, carry out regular cleaning drives, install proper waste disposal facilities along the route, and impose strict penalties on violators to deter such practices in the future.
They further called for sustained awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of plastic pollution and the importance of maintaining cleanliness, especially in ecologically sensitive and tourist areas like Tosamaidan, to preserve the region’s natural heritage and ensure public safety. [KNT]