Dumping waste along Amritsar bypass road poses threat to health

The unchecked dumping of garbage along the bypass road in Amritsar has become a major concern for commuters and residents in the city. Initially, marriage palaces located along the stretch used to dump garbage on the roadside during the wedding season, but now unidentified individuals have started dumping garbage, worsening the situation. The foul smell and unsanitary conditions have made commuting difficult for people passing through the area.

The garbage piles not only generate an unbearable stench but also attract stray dogs and cattle, increasing the risk of accidents. Commuters complain that the presence of animals on the road creates sudden obstacles, leading to near misses and, in some cases, collisions. The situation has only deteriorated despite the efforts of the municipal corporation (MC), which had earlier instructed bulk waste generators to install in-house waste processing units. However, only a handful of commercial establishments complied with the directives.

Residents of the locality have now urged the municipal corporation to take strict action to prevent the development of new dumping sites and ensure proper waste management. They demand regular monitoring and stricter penalties for violators to curb illegal dumping.

Amandeep Singh, a local resident, said, “This issue has been persisting for months now. Earlier, only a few marriage palaces would dump garbage, but now everyone seems to be dumping garbage here. The stench is unbearable and the sight is an eyesore. It’s disappointing to see how little action has been taken despite complaints. The authorities must step in to remove these heaps and stop further dumping.”

Rajesh Kumar, a daily commuter, said, “I travel on this road every day, and it’s too risky to commute. Stray dogs and cows gather around the garbage piles, suddenly coming onto the road and causing accidents. I’ve seen many near misses and crashes because of this. The municipal corporation needs to enforce strict rules and impose penalties on those responsible for dumping waste. We need a permanent solution before the situation worsens.”

Residents and commuters now await a firm response from the authorities to address the growing menace and restore cleanliness along the bypass road.