SRINAGAR: The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) J&K has welcomed the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to transform the Achan landfill site into a sustainable, eco-friendly facility within 30 months through scientific bioremediation — a move it described as a “long-awaited policy recognition” of the serious environmental and public health risks emanating from the site.
In a statement issued to Ziraat Times on Tuesday, the GCC said the Srinagar Municipal Corporation’s (SMC) initiative to integrate waste-to-energy and recycling components into the project could mark a turning point in waste management for Srinagar. The initiative aims to convert legacy waste into usable fuel and nutrient-rich soil to support agriculture and horticulture, while reducing air and groundwater pollution.
“For too long, the people living around Achan—and patients in nearby healthcare institutions including SKIMS—have suffered from toxic air, foul odour, and persistent respiratory illnesses. This is not merely an environmental issue but impinges on the fundamental right to health and clean air,” the GCC said.
However, the GCC cautioned that the success of the initiative will hinge on sustained oversight, transparency, and inter-agency coordination. It emphasized the importance of community participation in monitoring the project’s progress and maintaining accountability.
The group also recalled its sustained engagement with multiple authorities in recent months—including the Chief Minister, the Legislative Assembly House Committee on Environment, the Divisional Administration, the SMC, and the Srinagar Smart City authorities—urging an integrated and sustainable approach to solid waste management.
Appreciating the role of academics, media professionals, environmental bodies, and public activists, including Dr. Raja Muzaffar and Ms. Farzana, in amplifying concerns about Achan and other waste-related issues, the GCC said citizen advocacy had been instrumental in prompting government action.
“The GCC acknowledges the Government’s positive response to citizen advocacy and sees this as a hopeful beginning towards restoring the environmental dignity of Srinagar,” the statement added. “The Group will continue to observe, engage, and contribute constructively to ensure that the city truly breathes again.”
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