'Ensure environmental protection in Srinagar'

Srinagar, Jul 8: The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) has expressed concern over the pungent smell emanating from the Achan garbage dump and sought the intervention of authorities to take remediate measures for the convenience of people.

In a statement, Secretary GCC said they met the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir to convey their concerns. “One of the main concerns raised was the Achan

landfill site which, the Group said, posed a serious threat to public health and the environment. People living in nearby areas like Eidgah, Lal Bazar, Soura, and even SKIMS Hospital could be breathing in harmful gases. These gases can cause cancer, breathing problems, infertility, allergies, and other ailments,” the statement said.

The GCC requested a proper survey of gas levels in these areas and demanded that until a permanent solution is found, authorities must keep checking the air regularly for toxic concentrations. “People should be informed and advised about the risks, and health guidelines be issued as per Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards, including steps the public should follow to stay safe,” it said.

The statement said another area of concern was a dumping ground near Jamkash at Hyderpora, where waste disposal trucks are reportedly dumping garbage. “GCC members said that some local women are seen there sorting through waste with their bare hands, without any protection. They called this unsafe and said it must be stopped immediately,” the statement said.

The meeting also covered other key issues such as poor drainage and sewer systems, encroachment on public lands, "forgotten plans" for flood prevention, and farmlands being turned into construction zones. The GCC members also expressed serious concern over the escalating canine menace in Srinagar and sought measures to check the menace.

“The GCC also stressed the need for better coordination among departments and stronger laws to control unplanned development. Food safety was also discussed. The Group called for more checks on food hygiene, additives, and quality to ensure people are not exposed to health risks. The Divisional Commissioner assured the delegation that all these matters would be taken seriously and concerned departments asked to take immediate action,” the statement added.