Pulwama Solid Waste Crisis: MLA Parra Says Defunct Dumps Endanger Public, Pose Grave Threat to Upcoming Amarnath Yatra Along NH1

Pulwama: PDP leader and Pulwama MLA Waheed ur Rehman Parra has raised a critical alarm over multiple defunct solid waste dumping sites in the Valley and especially in his native district, warning they have become hazardous “disease hotspots” and pose a severe safety risk, particularly with the Amarnath Yatra approaching.

Parra said the situation near Padgampora, Awantipora, located alongside the crucial National Highway, as especially dire. He stated that the abandoned dumping site there has created a dangerous environment, directly impacting the highway, a primary route for the upcoming pilgrimage.

Overflowing waste at these sites is not only fostering potential disease outbreaks but has also attracted large packs of aggressive stray dogs. Parra said that these dogs have attacked residents, injuring dozens of people, including children.

Highlighting the immediate danger, the MLA , as per Alfaaz – The Words, stressed that the hazardous Padgampora site represents a “grave safety risk” for the influx of pilgrims expected on NH1 during the Yatra, besides endangering local residents daily.

Parra said four such critical dumping sites exist across Pulwama, which according to him require urgent intervention.

The legislator has appealed to key authorities including Jammu & Kashmir Housing and Urban Development Department, the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, and the Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama, for an immediate action. He also brought the escalating crisis to the attention of Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor (Manoj Sinha).