Lack of waste management turns Rambiara into garbage drain

Shopian, Jun 22: Residents living along the banks of the Rambiara river in south Kashmir’s Shopian district have been routinely dumping household waste into the stream, owing to the absence of a proper waste management system in the area.

The Rambiara stream, a key tributary of the Jhelum River, is a crucial source of irrigation and drinking water for several downstream villages, including parts of Pulwama district. However, over the years, this lifeline has been turning into an open garbage drain. Locals say they have no alternative means for waste disposal.

“There is no garbage collection system or landfill site in our area. We are left with no choice but to throw waste into the stream,” said a resident.

Mitha Gatoo, a prominent social activist from the area, said that mountains of garbage were piling up in the stream. "It has completely polluted the water body, which is a concern for the entire population," he added. Like Mitha Gatoo, other concerned citizens also voiced alarm over the continuous dumping of household waste into the stream.

"The garbage has also affected aquatic life," said Basharat Amin, a resident of the area. Similar concerns were echoed by Rafi Malik, who said the unchecked pollution was endangering both the environment and public health.

Authorities say that garbage collection vehicles have been procured and will soon be deployed in the area. Additionally, officials are reportedly finalizing a door-to-door waste collection plan to address the issue more effectively. Additionally, officials are reportedly finalising a door-to-door waste collection plan to address the issue more effectively.