Baramulla, May 1: Baramulla town in north Kashmir is set for a major upgrade in sanitation infrastructure following the approval of a Rs 40 crore Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP), addressing a long-standing demand of residents.
For years, the absence of an adequate waste management system had led to the accumulation of garbage in the town. Authorities had designated the jetty area as a dumping site, where waste from Baramulla as well as other parts of north Kashmir was disposed of.
The practice drew criticism from residents and environmental observers, as leachate from the waste flowed into the Jhelum River, raising serious concerns about pollution and public health.
The Jhelum, considered the lifeline of Baramulla, is a key source of water for a large section of the population, intensifying fears over continued contamination.
The approval of the STP has been widely welcomed. Farooq Ahmad, a local resident, termed the decision a significant step towards improving civic amenities. “With the growing population, such infrastructure is essential and should be prioritised,” he said.
Baramulla MLA Javed Hassan Beigh, who pushed for the project, said the approval brings major relief to residents. He thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for clearing the proposal, stating that it would address the town’s sanitation needs.
“I am highly thankful to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for approving this project. It will ensure that the sanitation needs of the town are properly addressed,” he said.
President of the Baramulla Traders Federation, Tariq Ahmad Mughloo, also welcomed the move, saying the project would significantly reduce pollution and help safeguard the Jhelum, marking a step towards sustainable urban management in the town.
