Srinagar, Nov 30: Sopore town in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district has virtually become an open dumping site as the town lacks a proper garbage disposal site.

Heaps of non-biodegradable waste, especially polythene and plastic can be seen scattered everywhere on the roads, which not only poses the threat of diseases but it also attracts street dogs posing threat to commuters.

Dr. Parveen, a social activist from Sopore told Rising Kashmir that a foul smell emanates from the garbage dumps lying in the open. 

“The Municipal Committee Sopore each day brings large piles of non-biodegradable garbage, including polythene, plastic, chemicals, medical waste and are left in open,” he said

Parveen said authorities have failed to identify and establish garbage dumping sites, which leads to waste being disposed of in irresponsible and hazardous ways.

 MC Sopore is currently dumping garbage in Tarzoo village which is around 4-5 kilometers from the main town.

Ashiq Hussain, a government teacher at a school in Tarzoo, where garbage is being dumped said they repeatedly asked the MC Sopore not to dump garbage here but they refused.

“We have complained many times about this grave problem, but people in the administration seem unconcerned about addressing the issue,” he said.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Sopore, Sajad Ahmad told Rising Kashmir that three sites have been identified as dumping sites but need court approval.