Amid official silence, locals clear waste from Tung Dhab banks

In a remarkable display of community spirit and determination, residents of University Enclave, situated near Guru Nanak Dev University, have taken it upon themselves to remove waste heaps that had been plaguing their locality for past many days. The waste had been dumped on the banks of the Tung Dhab drain after the Amritsar Municipal Corporation (MC) cleaned the drain over a week ago, leaving the residents to suffer the consequences of the foul smell and unhygienic conditions.

Despite writing letters to the MC, district administration, Punjab Pollution Control Board, and the local MP, the residents received no response, prompting them to pool their resources and hire a JCB machine and tractor-trolleys to remove the waste heaps themselves.

“We appreciate the cleaning of the Tung Dhab drain, but the MC should have taken care of the waste removed from the drain. The waste heaps were a nuisance for us, and the foul smell had become unbearable,” said Amarjit Singh Sidhu, a resident and retired professor.

The situation was indeed dire, with the waste heaps visible on both sides of the drain on the bypass leading to the Wagah border. The approach bridge connecting University Enclave with the bypass road was particularly affected, giving a dirty look and spreading foul smell on the bypass, contributing to air pollution in the surrounding residential colonies.

“We did not want to let the situation get out of hand like the Bhagatanwala area, where the waste heaps have become a permanent fixture,” said Balbir Singh, another resident.

The residents’ efforts have not only removed the waste heaps but also highlighted the need for better waste management practices in the city. It is a testament to the power of community action and a reminder to the authorities that the residents will not be ignored.

The residents hope that their efforts will prompt the authorities to take notice and ensure that such situations do not arise in the future. As one resident aptly put it, “It is time for the authorities to take responsibility and work towards creating a cleaner, healthier environment for us all.”

Amritsar