Garbage dumped along the national highway (NH-44) stretch near the tiger safari in Ludhiana has become a major concern for local residents, who say the situation is now unbearable. Plastic bags, paper waste, and other discarded items are scattered across the roadside, creating an eyesore and raising serious questions about pollution, hygiene, and the city's image.
Residents Voice Outrage
Describing the sight as an eyesore, locals claim it adversely impacts the area's beauty and poses serious questions about pollution and hygiene. Harpreet Singh, a resident of Jassian Road, said, This is the first sight people see while heading towards Ludhiana. It leaves a very poor impression of civic management.
Neha Sharma, a passerby, noted that the stench had become unbearable. It is shocking that such dumping is happening right next to a safari meant to showcase wildlife and nature, she added.
Monsoon Fears
A resident of Aman Nagar, located near the spot, warned that the situation will worsen with the onset of monsoon. The stench will become unbearable after rainfall. Authorities should clear the waste at the earliest, he said.
Activists Warn of Long-Term Impact
Environmental activists have highlighted the long-term consequences of improper waste disposal. Rajiv Mehta, an activist, stated, Improper disposal of waste along highways pollutes soil and water, and also poses a threat to animals in the vicinity. Authorities must act swiftly to clear the garbage and ensure strict penalties on violators.
Call for Immediate Action
Residents have urged the Municipal Corporation (MC) to take immediate steps to ensure cleanliness and proper waste management in the area. A commuter remarked, Ludhiana is a smart city, and we want it to be seen as a progressive one. It shouldn't be a city where visitors are greeted with piles of filth.
Man Fined Rs 24,000 for Open Dumping
In a related incident, strict action was taken against a man found dumping garbage in the open during MC Commissioner Ojasvi Alankar's visit to Focal Point areas on Thursday. The MC and police issued challans totaling Rs 24,000 to the violator. While the MC issued a Rs 10,000 challan under the Solid Waste Management Rules, the police slapped a Rs 14,000 fine under the Motor Vehicles Act.
