Garbage lifting crisis triggers uncontrolled burning in Amritsar

Irregular garbage lifting in Amritsar has led to a surge in residents setting trash heaps on fire across the city. The issue stems from ongoing disputes between the Municipal Corporation (MC) and former waste management firm Averda, which have disrupted regular garbage collection for several months.

Large heaps of garbage are now a common sight in various parts of the city. The MC has been unable to lift and dispose of the waste completely, leading to a deteriorating hygiene situation—particularly around hospitals and the densely populated walled city. Residents report that even when garbage is collected, the lifting is only partial and occurs after several days of delay, causing waste to rot and stink.

In frustration, residents and possibly sanitation workers have resorted to setting garbage piles on fire. Fires have been reported in public parks, along roadsides, in parking lots, and even inside garbage bins. Smouldering heaps and smoke have been seen near Guru Nanak Dev Hospital and ESI Hospital on Majitha Road. The burning of plastic-laden waste is releasing toxic fumes, posing a significant health hazard to city residents.

Residents near dumping yards continue to resist further unloading of garbage. A large trash pile near Rattan Singh Chowk and the rear side of Company Bagh was reportedly set ablaze recently. Many citizens say they are left with no choice as sanitation services remain unreliable.

Sudhir Aggarwal, a morning walker at Company Bagh, said, “Scores of city residents come here to breathe pollution-free air. But now, foul odours and garbage make it hard to even walk.”

Harpreet Singh, a shopkeeper near the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT), remarked, “Garbage is piling up around the bus stand, leaving a poor impression on tourists visiting the holy city.” He added that the authorities should act swiftly with the festive season approaching.

Medical experts warn that burning waste, especially plastic and polystyrene, emits dangerous toxins. The smoke contains particulate matter, carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, benzene, styrene, arsenic, and more. Several residents have already complained of breathing difficulties due to prolonged exposure.