GCC welcomes Government’s new initiative on Achan landfill site
Srinagar, Oct 7: The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) J&K has welcomed the Government's resolve to transform the Achan landfill site into a sustainable, eco-friendly asset within 30 months through scientific bioremediation.
In a statement, GCC said this marks a long-awaited policy recognition of the serious environmental and public health concerns of this Landfill site. GCC hailed the SMC initiative aimed at sustainable solution of ACHAN issues, in particular the inclusion of modern waste-to-energy and recycling components, which could transform part of the legacy waste into usable fuel and nutrient-rich soil to support agriculture and horticulture.
"For too long, the people living around Achan—and patients in nearby healthcare institutions ,including SKIMS—have suffered from toxic air, foul odour, and persistent respiratory illnesses. This is not merely an environmental issue but impinged on the fundamental right to health and clean air".
The GCC cautioned that the success of this initiative will depend on consistent monitoring and inter-agency collaboration and recalled having interacted with multiple authorities over recent months—including the Chief Minister, the Legislative Assembly House Committee on Environment, the Divisional Administration, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), and Smart City authorities—to advocate for an integrated and sustainable approach to solid waste management. The Group also appreciated the role of academics, media persons, environmental bodies, public activists, Dr Raja Muzafar & Dr Farzana in particular, and the civil society at large in raising Achan and other critical issues related to solid waste management.
"The GCC acknowledges the Government’s positive response to citizen advocacy and sees this as a hopeful beginning towards restoring the environmental dignity of Srinagar. The Group will continue to observe, engage, and contribute constructively to ensure that the city truly breathes again," it said calling for public participation.
