Garbage mess irks Putligarh-Gawal Mandi residents

Heaps of garbage lie strewn at places across the stretch from Putligarh to Gawal Mandi Chowk. Garbage heaps have turned one of the city’s busiest commercial areas into a stinking mess, drawing criticism from traders, residents and daily visitors. Despite the fact that the area is a commercial hub with hundreds of shops being visited by thousands of people every day, sanitation services remain woefully inadequate.

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Traders in the area say the situation has worsened over the past two weeks. Heaps of waste, single use plastic carry bags, plastic wrappers, food leftovers and vegetable waste can be seen lying in the middle of the road, making the movement of commuters difficult, besides being a health hazard.

“Customers hesitate to enter the market because of the stink and unhygienic conditions. Despite repeated complaints to the municipal corporation, no permanent solution has been provided. Garbage is not being lifted regularly,” said Ashwani, a shopkeeper at Gawal Mandi Chowk.

The poor condition of garbage collection vehicles of the municipal corporation is a major reason for the mess. “Most of the garbage-lifting vehicles of solid waste management company are lying defunct. Only a few tippers are operational, and they are being diverted to clean only the main city roads,” said a MC worker in area.

While prominent roads and government office surroundings are cleaned on a priority basis, commercial and market areas, especially those like Gawal Mandi, are being neglected. “The irony is that this market contributes significant revenue through taxes and commercial activity, yet we are ignored when it comes to providing basic civic services, said Rajinder, another shopkeeper.

Visitors too expressed their disappointment. Rachna, who came from Chheharta to shop for a party, said, “It’s disgusting. The foul smell hits you the moment you enter the market. This is not the kind of experience people expect in a prominent city like Amritsar.” However, until concrete steps are taken, shopkeepers and residents say they will continue to suffer amid the filth and foul air.