Nagam residents protest open garbage sites in pristine Karewa lands

By: Naveed Ul Haq

Budgam: Residents from several villages around Nagam staged a protest at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s (SDM) Office in Chadoora, accusing the Municipal Committee (MC) Chadoora and several Block Development Offices of negligence over an open dumping site at Nagam Karewas that has led to repeated attacks on livestock and children by stray dogs.

The villagers said that despite multiple protests and formal requests, authorities have failed to act against the growing menace posed by the dumping site, which attracts hundreds of stray dogs.

“These dogs roam freely in our villages, biting children and killing our livestock,” said a protester. “Just yesterday, several sheep were killed and this is not the first time. Such incidents have occurred repeatedly.”

According to the residents, the dumping site has turned into a major threat as waste from various blocks and municipal areas is discarded openly, providing easy access to food for stray dogs and encouraging their proliferation.

SDM Chadoora Primrose Bashir speaking to media over the issue stated that the administration has taken cognizance of the matter. “Fencing work at the dumping site will begin very soon to prevent further incidents,” the official assured.

However, villagers demand immediate action, fearing further casualties if the issue continues to be ignored. —(KNO)