Sadar Bazaar in Delhi choked with waste as civic apathy persists

Delhi’s bustling wholesale hub, Sadar Bazaar, is struggling with mounting piles of rubbish that have become a growing concern for traders and residents alike. From Qutub Road to Teliwara, heaps of uncollected waste line the streets, creating not just an eyesore but also posing serious health and environmental risks.

Traders say the situation has deteriorated over the past few weeks, with little visible effort from civic authorities. “The garbage problem in Sadar Bazaar is only getting worse. The cleaning drives are merely for show; the reality is that drains and sewer lines remain choked, leading to frequent blockages and a foul odour,” said Paramjeet Singh Pamma, president of the Sadar Bazaar Bari Market Traders’ Association.

He added that the poor sanitation is adding to Delhi’s already alarming pollution levels. “The city is battling severe pollution and these waste heaps are only making it worse. Many traders are falling ill, and business is suffering,” he said, urging the authorities to act swiftly.

Pamma said the association has reached out to both the Chief Minister and the city’s Mayor on social media, appealing for an immediate and sustained clean-up drive in the area. “Regular and effective sanitation efforts are the only way to prevent this from turning into a full-blown health crisis,” he added.

Local shopkeepers say that despite repeated complaints, garbage collection has been irregular, and the narrow lanes remain clogged with waste. As Delhi’s pollution season peaks, residents fear that the mix of rotting trash and smog could further deteriorate air quality in the already congested market area.