Pollution Crisis Unfolds in Ghaziabad: Residents Demand Action Against Illegal Dumpsite

Residents of several housing societies in Crossings Republik, Ghaziabad, find themselves grappling with an escalating environmental crisis as a vacant plot adjacent to their condominiums has transformed into an unauthorized dumpsite. The community's concerns have intensified over the disposal of plastic waste and sewage, which has become a persistent issue affecting their quality of life. Local residents report that the situation has deteriorated significantly, particularly when the dumped waste is set ablaze. "The smoke from burning refuse has made the air quality unbearable, spiking pollution levels in our area," lamented Prateek Singh, a concerned resident of Exotica Eastern Court. He pointed out that while burning waste was once confined to nighttime, it has now extended into daylight hours, exacerbating the problem. The monsoon season adds another layer of distress, as heavy rainfall turns the plot into a muddy mess, further complicating the waste issue. Despite numerous complaints filed with local authorities, residents claim there has been little to no response or action taken. "We feel neglected. The garbage and sewage waste remain exposed, and all our efforts to get it resolved have yielded no results," shared Anuranjan Srivastava from Skytech Merion Residency 2. The residents have put forth a collective demand for accountability, asserting that landowners and developers should bear the responsibility of regularly maintaining their properties. The foul odor emanating from the dumpsite has become a daily nuisance, raising concerns among residents about potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to smoke and pollution. Another resident expressed frustration with the lack of action from local governance: "We are continually exposed to these hazardous conditions, and it pains us to think about the health repercussions we might face in the long run." Their concerns reflect a broader sentiment that, while regulations against illegal waste disposal exist, effective enforcement and monitoring are crucial to ensure compliance and protect the community. Despite attempts to engage with officials from the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC), the lack of responsiveness has left residents feeling abandoned in their plight. With the increasing burden of pollution and health risks looming over their daily lives, the residents of Crossings Republik are calling for immediate intervention and sustainable waste management solutions to restore their community's safety and well-being.