Bandipora, Oct 23 (KNO): Acting swiftly on the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) report, highlighting the illegal dumping of rural waste into Wullar Lake at Puthshay, the authorities have initiated a cleanup operation in the area on Thursday, officials said.
Officials from the Rural Development Department (RDD), led by Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Bandipora Bashir Ahmad, directed the Block Development Officer (BDO) Bandipora to take immediate action after the issue was reported on Tuesday.
Heavy machinery, including a bulldozer and vehicles, were deployed to the site to remove the accumulated waste.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that large quantities of garbage were cleared on Wednesday, though locals said consistent monitoring is essential to prevent reoccurrence. “We welcome the swift action, but the problem won’t end unless dumping stops permanently,” said Muhammad Amin, a resident of Puthshay.
Earlier, KNO had reported that the lakeshore was turning into a dumping ground, following a similar situation in Zalwan, raising environmental concerns among locals and conservationists.
Environmental activists said that temporary cleanups will not solve the issue unless sustainable waste management measures are implemented. “The administration must identify alternate dumping sites and enforce penalties to protect Wullar,” said Mohammad Amin, a local resident.
Officials said the RDD is coordinating with other departments to ensure proper disposal of rural waste and prevent further pollution in the lake area—(KNO)