KULGAM, Sep 5: Solid Waste Management (SWM) sheds established at Adigam, Gundipora, Chowgam, Cheyan, Kilam and other areas of Devsar Block have allegedly failed to serve their intended purpose, with heaps of garbage reportedly lying unattended in and around the designated sites.
Residents told Top News Correspondent that the facilities, meant to promote scientific waste management and keep public spaces clean, have instead turned into dumping points, particularly along roadside locations.
The unattended waste, locals alleged, has resulted in foul odour and unhygienic conditions, causing inconvenience to residents as well as commuters passing through these areas.
Residents further alleged that the Block Development Officer (BDO), Devsar, had assured them that the accumulated garbage would be cleared within a day. However, they claimed that around 15 days have passed since the assurance, while the waste continues to remain on the ground.
The situation has triggered resentment among locals, who questioned the effectiveness of the SWM infrastructure in the absence of regular waste collection, disposal and monitoring.
Residents have urged the Rural Development Department (RDD) to take immediate cognisance of the issue and ensure that the accumulated garbage is removed without further delay.
They also sought regular inspections and a proper waste-collection mechanism, saying that SWM sheds should function as intended rather than becoming permanent dumping sites.
The residents said effective waste management requires not just infrastructure, but regular monitoring and accountability to ensure that such facilities actually benefit the public.