The future of these communities relies on the ability of the GMC and related authorities to work towards a solution that prioritises health and well-being of the residents
Residents in several localities of the city are grappling with a severe issue: the unbearable stench emanating from nearby garbage transfer stations. Sundarpur, Sijubari, Chabipool, GMCH, and Balughat are some of the areas where garbage is collected by mini vans and then transferred to Belor Tol near Jalukbari. Despite being a continuous process, the stench from these stations persists, creating a significant health hazard for local communities.
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Locals have been vocal about their frustration and health concerns. “The smell is so strong that we can’t keep our windows open, and it feels like we’re living in a dump yard,” said Swati Goswami, a resident of Sijubari. Another resident, Manoj Sharma from Sundarpur, shared, “My children have been coughing more frequently, and I worry it’s because of the poor air quality. This problem needs immediate attention.”
In Chabipool, the situation is similar. “We’ve been complaining for months, but nothing seems to change. The odor is unbearable, especially during the summer months,” said Meera Sahu, who has lived in the area for over a decade. The sentiment is echoed in GMCH and Balughat, where residents report a persistent foul smell affecting their daily lives and well-being.
The long-term exposure to the foul smell is more than just an inconvenience; it poses serious health risks. The unsanitary conditions have led to a rise in respiratory issues among residents.
Speaking to GPlus, a senior official from Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) emphasised the health risks, stating, “The municipality garbage stations should be cleared regularly as it is hazardous for the public. It results in lung infections and other pulmonary diseases. Fumigation and DDT should be sprayed to keep the areas clean. Those who stay near the stations should use masks to prevent any infection.”
The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has acknowledged the issue but has struggled to provide a lasting solution. In a statement to GPlus, a senior GMC official said, “It is a rule to clear garbage instantly; no waste materials are left out. As it is done in shifts, it takes a little time, and the odor spreads out. We will instruct the site engineers to keep a check on it and do the needful.”
Despite these assurances, residents report that the problem remains unresolved. One major complication is that the garbage transfer vehicles are often not covered during transit, leading to spills and a lingering foul smell on the roads. This is particularly problematic for two-wheeler commuters who are directly exposed to the smell.
The persistent odor is not just a daily nuisance but a long-term danger. The unhygienic conditions can lead to chronic health problems, including respiratory diseases and infections. “It feels like we’re breathing in slow poison,” remarked Pintu Ray, a resident of Balughat. The continuous exposure to such conditions can weaken the immune system, making residents more susceptible to illnesses.
Environmental experts have also raised concerns about the broader impact on the local ecosystem. The foul smell indicates the presence of decomposing organic matter, which can attract pests and further spread diseases. The lack of proper waste management practices increases these risks, creating a hazardous living environment for the city’s residents.
Residents are calling for immediate and effective measures to address the issue. They demand more frequent and thorough cleaning of the garbage stations and the use of proper sanitation measures such as fumigation and spraying of disinfectants. “We need the authorities to take this seriously and implement real changes. Our health and our children’s health depend on it,” urged Nayana Das from Sundarpur.
Moreover, there is a pressing need for better waste management practices. Covering the garbage transfer vehicles and ensuring that no waste spills onto the roads can significantly reduce the odor and improve the overall sanitation of the area. Authorities must also explore long-term solutions such as modernising the garbage transfer stations and implementing stricter regulations for waste management.
The stench from these transfer stations has not only affected the human inhabitants but has also had a detrimental impact on the local environment. Wildlife in nearby areas, particularly birds and small mammals, are increasingly seen scavenging through the waste, which poses a risk of disease transmission across species. Local flora also suffers, with certain plants and trees showing signs of stress due to the polluted air.
Community gardens and green spaces, vital for the mental and physical well-being of the residents, are less frequented due to the unbearable smell. This decline in green space usage further isolates the residents from natural respite, escalating mental health issues linked to urban living conditions.
The odor problem has far-reaching social implications as well. The foul smell discourages social gatherings and outdoor activities, impacting the community’s social fabric. This decline in social interaction can lead to increased feelings of isolation and stress among residents.
Additionally, the property values in these affected areas have seen a decline. Potential buyers are deterred by the odor, making it difficult for current residents to sell their homes and move to less affected areas. This economic impact adds another layer of strain on the residents, many of whom feel trapped in an unhealthy environment.
Addressing the persistent odor and the resulting health hazards requires a multi-faceted approach. Public health campaigns to educate residents on how to mitigate the impact of the odor, such as using air purifiers and wearing masks, can provide some immediate relief. However, these are only temporary measures.
Long-term solutions involve substantial investments in waste management infrastructure. This includes upgrading the garbage transfer stations to be more efficient and less odorous, ensuring that garbage is promptly and properly covered during transit, and implementing stricter enforcement of waste disposal regulations. Regular audits and monitoring of these stations can help ensure compliance and effectiveness.
The GMC’s current efforts have been insufficient, leaving communities to deal with the daily assault on their senses and health. Immediate action is required to address this issue, including regular cleaning, proper sanitation, and better waste management practices. The well-being of the city’s residents depends on it.
By addressing these concerns, the city can ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for all its inhabitants. The residents’ pleas for a better quality of life should not go unheard, and it is up to the authorities to implement effective solutions without further delay.
The health, social, and environmental implications of the current situation underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained action. The future of these communities relies on the ability of the GMC and related authorities to recognise the gravity of the issue and to work collaboratively towards a solution that prioritises the health and well-being of all residents.