The improper management of solid waste at Katra Railway Station has highlighted the critical need for strict adherence to environmental regulations. The sacred town of Katra, an important pilgrimage site, is experiencing severe environmental damage due to the careless disposal and burning of waste. This situation necessitates prompt corrective actions and accountability. An inspection by the Divisional Officer of the Pollution Control Committee Reasi has uncovered significant breaches of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and other related laws. The station management’s open dumping and incineration of mixed waste have led to air and water pollution, jeopardizing ecological balance and public health. In spite of explicit directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Solid Waste Management Bye-Laws, 2019, the management of Katra Railway Station has shown a shocking disregard for these environmental standards. The JKPCC’s issuance of a show-cause notice to the Station Superintendent marks a critical first step, emphasizing the irreparable harm caused by the station’s mismanagement and warning of potential penalties if corrective actions are not taken. This notice also indicates the possibility of prosecution under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, if compliance fails.
However, this issue is not isolated to Katra Railway Station alone; similar violations have been observed in areas like Panchayat Badyal Brahmana in R S Pura, pointing to systemic negligence in waste management across various government bodies and jurisdictions. The severity of the situation in Katra is intensified by its role as a major pilgrimage hub. With an anticipated increase in train operations extending to Baramulla in the Kashmir Valley, the amount of waste produced is likely to rise significantly. Immediate intervention is crucial, as ongoing mismanagement of solid waste could inflict further irreversible damage to the town’s environment. Collaboration among railway authorities, local bodies, and state pollution control agencies is essential to ensure strict compliance with waste management laws. The actions of the JKPCC serve as a crucial reminder for all stakeholders to prioritize sustainability and prevent further harm to the ecological integrity of this revered town.
