DUMPING GROUND NEWS
JALPAIGURI NEWS: About a month and a half ago, a fire broke out at the dumping ground near the city of Balapara. Dump workers rushed to extinguish the fire. Despite their efforts, several fires continue to burn, releasing toxic smoke into the air. The smoky air contains harmful elements due to the burning waste, causing concern among environmental enthusiasts.
According to the Science and Nature Club, the smoke emitted from the dumping ground contains elements linked to cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The organization has sent letters to the district health office, municipality, and pollution control board requesting action.
Residents of Paharpur Gram Panchayat are directly affected by the polluted smoke, suffering from various health problems. Local Panchayat member Bablu Basak stated, "Residents, especially the elderly and children, have been advised to take special care. Many are experiencing burning sensations in their eyes and throats, especially in the evenings."
It's been reported that although some progress has been made in waste management using special machines, the problem has not been fully resolved. Due to the presence of multiple chemical pollutants in the smoke, there are concerns about the potential health impact.
Faizur Rahman, the responsible official of the dumping ground, commented, "The exact cause of the fire is unknown." Local residents fear that if the situation persists, the health problems of people in the area will worsen. Many are experiencing breathing difficulties due to the strong odor.
Papia Pal, the head of Jalpaiguri municipality, mentioned, "Steps have been taken with the cooperation of the dump management. The next phase of the Solid Waste Management Project will begin after the tender process. This should resolve the issue."
However, unless the problem is swiftly addressed, environmental enthusiasts warn of significant consequences. A member of the Science and Nature Club stated, "The dumping ground is burning both organic and non-organic waste together. Plastics and thermocol are causing toxic smoke emissions. In addition to harming human health, nearby Tista River is also being polluted."
Efforts are underway to resolve the situation, but until then, the community remains at risk from the ongoing waste smoke problem.
- Report by News Malbazar representative
From our Facebook Channel
