The rising piles of garbage in the heart of Islamabad have caused public outcry, with residents of I-10/1, I-11 and the surrounding areas of Metro Cash and Carry, Islamabad Sabzi Mandi voicing strong concerns about the increasing pollution and health risks posed by a nearby garbage dumping site. The site, located just a stone’s throw from residential areas, has become a breeding ground for foul odors, unsightly pollution, and the spread of diseases, residents claim.

Through a written complaint to this news agency the community has expressed their frustration with the Capital Development Authority (CDA), accusing the organization of incompetence and neglect. According to locals, the dumping site has become a major environmental hazard, detracting from the beauty and cleanliness Islamabad is known for. The residents have raised a collective plea to the CDA and the Islamabad administration to take immediate action to remove the garbage site.

“These mountains of garbage are not the Margalla Hills we expect to see,” said Rashid Minhas a resident of I-10. “We’re living in the middle of pollution, with no regard for our health or well-being, he added. In light of the situation, the local community has warned that if the issue is not resolved swiftly, they will resort to a full-scale protest outside the office of the CDA Chairman. The protest aims to draw attention to the severe environmental and public health risks posed by the ongoing garbage dumping.

Additionally, the residents including Saifur Rehman, Rafay MInhas, Muhammad Faizan and Rayyan have called on their Member of the National Assembly (MNA), Anjum Aqeel Khan, to intervene and engage with relevant authorities to resolve the issue. “We need immediate action to prevent further damage to our environment and ensure the health and safety of our community,” said Asif Minhas a visitor in Sabzi Mandi.

As the situation escalates, the local residents are hoping for a swift and effective resolution from the CDA and the Islamabad administration to restore the cleanliness and safety of their living spaces. However, responding a question Asif said improper disposal of waste at the I-11 Sabzi Mandi, Islamabad’s major fruit and vegetable market, has become a grave public health hazard.

The Sabzi Mandi, a hub for the city’s fruit and vegetable trade, has turned into a dumping ground for unsold perishable goods. Traders discard spoiled produce, creating mounds of decaying organic waste. Shahmir, a motorcyclist, told “Every time I pass through this area, I feel like holding my breath. The smell is so bad that it ruins the whole experience of commuting on this route.”

A multinational cash-and-carry store located adjacent to the dumping site has reported declining footfall due to the unpleasant smell and unsanitary environment. “Customers are reluctant to visit because of the stench,” said a visiting lady Nadia. Citizens and experts are calling on the CDA and Market Committee to step up, fulfil their responsibilities, and ensure a clean, safe, and sustainable environment for all.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)