Illegal garbage dumping in vacant plots poses health hazards across city

As the city continues to expand rapidly, a troubling pattern has emerged across several residential areas which is the unchecked dumping of garbage in vacant plots and public spaces. From upscale colonies to developing sectors, residents are increasingly alarmed by health hazards, environmental degradation and civic indifference surrounding the issue.

Despite clear guidelines under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and repeated directives from the pollution control authorities, illegal waste disposal remains rampant. Residents and local action groups are now stepping forward, documenting violations, confronting offenders and demanding strict enforcement from municipal and environmental bodies.

A recent complaint filed by the Public Action Committee (PAC) regarding garbage dumped behind Sat Paul Mittal School in Dugri is just one example of a larger civic crisis. Similar concerns have been raised in areas such as Pakhowal Road, Gurdev Nagar, Model Town Extension and Sarabha Nagar — pointing to a city-wide failure in monitoring and waste management.

The complaint, filed by the PAC, details how recently a man was seen unloading several garbage-filled bags in a vacant plot. The act was captured on video and submitted to the Municipal Corporation, GLADA, and the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) for action under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.

Amit Goyal, a resident, who witnessed the incident, confronted the individual and reminded him of his civic duty. “I politely asked him not to dump garbage in a public space but instead of acknowledging his mistake, he arrogantly dismissed my concern and challenged me to complain wherever I wished,” Goyal said.

PAC member Er Kapil Dev expressed alarm over the recurring dumping at the site. “This plot has become a regular dumping ground. Garbage is often set on fire here, releasing toxic fumes. It’s a serious health hazard for nearby residents, especially children and the elderly,” he said.

The PAC has demanded that the site be cleaned, fenced and monitored to prevent further dumping. They’ve also called for legal action against the offender and vehicle owner, citing violations of environmental norms and public nuisance laws.

Municipal Commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal said he would take necessary action in the Dugri incident.

The issue has resonated beyond Dugri, with residents from other parts of Ludhiana voicing similar concerns.

“In our area near Pakhowal Road, we’ve seen garbage dumped in vacant plots and even along green belts. Despite repeated complaints, no lasting action is taken,” said Renu Sharma, a homemaker and resident of Gurdev Nagar.

From Model Town Extension, social worker Harpreet Singh said: “Illegal dumping is not just a sanitation issue, it reflects a breakdown in civic discipline. The authorities must penalise offenders and install surveillance to deter such acts.”

Environmental activists have also weighed in. “We need stricter enforcement and community awareness. People must understand that dumping waste irresponsibly is a punishable offence,” said Rajiv Mehta, coordinator of a local green initiative in Focal Point.