PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
A large garbage dump lying in the open outside the Urban Health Sub-Centre of Mahant Indiresh Hospital in Khurbura has become a cause of concern for local residents and parents, who fear it could pose health risks, especially during the monsoon season. The garbage pile is located close to the health sub-centre and around 2-3 kilometres from the Shri Guru Ram Rai Public School, raising concerns over hygiene and the potential spread of diseases in the area.
The concern comes even as the Municipal Corporation of Dehradun (MCD) continues fogging and sanitation drives across the city to curb vector-borne diseases such as dengue. Residents questioned the effectiveness of such measures when garbage remains unattended near important institutions, including a healthcare facility and a school located nearby.
Parents said that the waste has been lying at the site for an extended period and frequently emits a foul smell. They warned that the situation could worsen during the rains, creating unhygienic conditions and increasing the risk of disease. “The garbage has been lying here for a long time and the foul smell is a constant problem. We fear diseases such as dengue during the rainy season, but nothing has changed so far,” said local resident Deepika Sharma.
Locals also pointed out that the presence of garbage near a health centre sends the wrong message about sanitation and public hygiene. Responding to the complaints, MCD officials said that they would identify the sanitation workers and sanitation inspector responsible for the area and take steps to ensure that the garbage is cleared at the earliest.
The locals have also urged the civic body to remove the waste regularly and prevent fresh dumping around the site.
