Karachi [Pakistan], December 10 (ANI): Residents of Liaquatabad’s FC Area in Karachi are living in unbearable conditions after a vacant plot near the Government Lal Girls Secondary School turned into an informal dumping site amid alleged neglect by the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB), The Express Tribune reported.
Locals say garbage began accumulating in the open plot nearly a month ago when SSWMB workers allegedly started unloading waste there. Despite repeated complaints, the trash has not been removed, creating a foul stench, breeding grounds for insects, and occasional fires that send thick smoke across the neighbourhood. Hundreds of families, students and worshippers at the adjoining mosque are affected.
Residents reported that people with respiratory problems and asthma have been hit hardest. The growing heap poses environmental and safety risks. The crisis escalated when the garbage caught fire on Tuesday — the second such incident in recent days — spreading toxic black smoke and forcing people to stay indoors.
“Our children go to school beside it, and we offer prayers next to it. The authorities have left us helpless,” one local said. A Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) fire tender arrived after the blaze and controlled it before it could spread to nearby bushes or the school building. Officials confirmed there were no injuries but warned a delay could have led to a disaster, The Express Tribune noted.
Residents have again appealed to the SSWMB managing director to urgently clear the site and prevent future dumping in the densely populated area, saying the inaction reflects the government’s disregard for public health and civic welfare and highlights Karachi’s worsening waste management crisis, The Express Tribune reported. (ANI)
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