Illegal burning of garbage has become a common sight in Sahnewal, causing severe air pollution and health issues for residents. Despite a legal ban on open burning, heaps of waste are regularly set on fire, turning garbage disposal into a major environmental hazard. The municipal council appears to have turned a blind eye to the problem, even as media reports and resident complaints highlight the issue.
Residents Face Toxic Smoke Daily
Residents of Sahnewal are enduring difficult times as they are frequently exposed to toxins and air pollution from burning garbage. Instead of systematic disposal in landfills, waste is simply thrown and ignited. Harbans Singh Sains, a local resident, stated, “Even though open burning is illegal, cases continue all over town. The council’s casual attitude and lack of enforcement are the root causes. Garbage is regularly set on fire in areas such as opposite Gurdwara Reru Sahib, near the tehsil office, and near open godown spaces.”
Health and Safety Concerns
Manjinder Singh Bhola, another resident, described the conditions as “hellish” and “intolerable.” He said, “These fires have become a common sight. Every now and then, one can see a garbage heap burning. Early in the morning, when people step out for fresh air, the smoke chokes their breath. The foul smell makes breathing a task.” A recent fire near Gurdwara Reru Sahib and a petrol station could have turned into a major tragedy. “One spark is enough to cause a disaster near the fuel station, but there is a complete lack of enforcement and a casual attitude from the council,” added another resident.
Council’s Responsibility and Resident Demands
It is mandatory for the council to ensure scientific disposal of solid waste. However, garbage collection is erratic, and no monitoring exists to stop such fires. Residents are fed up with the situation. One resident shared, “How can anyone live where garbage burning is regular? We feel like leaving because the smoke and stench are awful. Strict action should be taken against violators. CCTV cameras at dumping hotspots should be mandatory, along with a time-bound plan for door-to-door collection and landfill disposal.”
Official Response
Executive Officer of the Sahnewal Municipal Council, Balvir Singh, said that ragpickers generally engage in such burning. “It sometimes becomes difficult to pinpoint the culprit. We will identify those who set garbage on fire and impose hefty fines. The fire near the gurdwara will be taken care of, as it is on the service lane and opposite a holy place,” he added.
