Bandipora, Feb 24 (JKNS): Residents of Vijpara Sonawari have expressed serious concern over the worsening condition of the Sheikh Canal, which they say has become a major headache for the local population due to continuous pollution.
According to the residents as per news agency JKNS, although the canal was earlier used for various domestic and agricultural purposes, a local milk factory has allegedly been dumping waste and chemical effluents into it on a daily basis. This has resulted in severe foul smell across the area, while the canal water has become completely unfit for any kind of use, causing immense difficulties to the public.
Angered by the situation, residents staged a strong protest against the unchecked pollution and raised slogans demanding immediate action. The protesters demanded that strict penalties be imposed on the milk factory and urged the authorities to either install proper waste treatment mechanisms or shut down the factory altogether to protect public health and the environment.
When contacted, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Sumbal, Bandipora, stated that if the affected people approach his office formally, he will make efforts to resolve the issue at the earliest.
The residents have appealed to the district administration to intervene without delay and ensure that the Sheikh Canal is protected from further contamination. (JKNS)
