Sanitation Workers Strike Deepens Cleanliness Crisis in Karnal
The ongoing strike by sanitation workers in Karnal has exacerbated the city's cleanliness crisis, leading to massive garbage accumulation in residential areas, markets, and public spaces. The strike, which began on Monday, has left thousands of residents without waste collection services, raising concerns about health hazards and environmental degradation.
Strike Demands and Impact
The sanitation workers, affiliated with various unions, are demanding regularisation of their services, timely payment of wages, and provision of safety equipment. They have been protesting outside the Karnal Municipal Corporation (KMC) office, refusing to resume work until their demands are met. The strike has resulted in nearly 200 tonnes of uncollected waste piling up across the city, with garbage bins overflowing and streets littered with debris.
Residents, particularly in densely populated areas like Model Town, Sector 12, and the old city, have been worst affected. Many have resorted to burning garbage or dumping it in vacant plots, further worsening air and soil pollution. Local shopkeepers have reported a significant drop in footfall due to the foul smell and unhygienic conditions.
Municipal Response
KMC Commissioner Dr. Dhirendra Khadgata has held multiple rounds of talks with the agitating workers, but no breakthrough has been achieved so far. The corporation has deployed temporary workers to clear garbage from major roads and commercial areas, but the effort is inadequate to cover the entire city. Officials have warned that legal action may be taken against the striking workers if they do not resume duties immediately.
Meanwhile, the Haryana State Pollution Control Board has issued a notice to the KMC, citing violations of solid waste management rules. The board has directed the corporation to ensure proper waste disposal within 48 hours or face penalties.
Public Outcry
Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of basic services. “We are living in a dump yard. The stench is unbearable, and diseases are spreading,” said Rajesh Sharma, a resident of Sector 9. Others have demanded the intervention of the state government to resolve the crisis.
The strike has also impacted the city's drainage system, with choked drains leading to waterlogging in several areas after recent rains. Health experts have warned of an increased risk of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria if the situation is not addressed promptly.
Way Forward
Both sides remain adamant, with workers insisting on their demands and the KMC seeking an immediate resumption of work. The state government has yet to intervene directly, but sources indicate that a meeting with higher officials is scheduled for tomorrow. Until a resolution is reached, the cleanliness crisis in Karnal is likely to worsen, posing serious challenges to public health and urban governance.
