JAMMU, May 21: Jammu & Kashmir Border Area Development Conference (JK-BADC), a registered organisation working for the welfare of border residents and tribal communities of J&K, has expressed serious concern over increasing incidents of illegal dumping of waste near rivers, streams, nallahs and other water bodies in Poonch district.
In a statement Dr. Shazad Ahmed Malik ,Chairman BADC and former Vice Chancellor said that unchecked disposal of garbage, plastic waste, construction material and household waste near water bodies is creating serious environmental and public health concerns across several areas of the border district Poonch.
Dr. Shazad stated that many natural water bodies and natural drainage systems in Poonch town as well as adjoining rural areas are gradually getting polluted due to lack of proper monitoring and waste management practices. He observed that dumping of waste near streams and roadside nallahs has become common in certain locations, especially in semi-urban and densely populated areas.
The former Vice Chancellor warned that continued pollution of water sources could adversely affect drinking water quality, agriculture, livestock and overall ecological balance in the region. He said “God forbids but due to rising pollution, certain water bodies in Poonch district may face extinction “ He further stated that border district Poonch already sensitive due to its hilly terrain and border location, requires environmentally responsible development and stronger enforcement of pollution control measures.
BADC Chairman urged the district administration, municipal authorities, Rural Development Department and Pollution Control Committee to conduct regular inspections and identify vulnerable dumping spots in both urban and rural areas. The organisation also demanded installation of waste collection points, awareness signboards and stricter penalties against violators involved in illegal dumping activities.
The organisation emphasized that protection of natural water resources is essential for public health, environmental sustainability and the future wellbeing of coming generations in Poonch district.