GANDERBAL, JULY 25: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Ganderbal, Saturday organized an awareness programme on Solid Waste Management at the International Youth Hostel, Sonamarg, with an aim to sensitize the local community, tourists, and stakeholders about sustainable waste disposal practices and the legal framework governing environmental protection.
The programme, as per an official statement, was conducted under the supervision of Abdul Nasir, Chairman, DLSA Ganderbal and under the guidance of Sheikh Babar Hussain, Secretary, DLSA Ganderbal.
During the session, Tanveer Ashraf and Asima Khaliq, Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel Ganderbal, delivered detailed deliberations. They underscored the critical importance of scientific waste management in preserving the ecological integrity of Sonamarg, which remains one of the most frequented tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley. They elaborated on the statutory provisions under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, while stressing compliance with the directives of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
The speakers highlighted the necessity of four-way segregation of waste at the source into wet, dry, domestic hazardous, and sanitary waste categories. They also cautioned against the open burning of waste and the continued use of banned single-use plastics, informing the audience about the penal provisions, including the imposition of environmental compensation and sealing of non-compliant establishments.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents, hoteliers, shopkeepers, and members of the International Youth Club. The interactive session allowed participants to raise queries regarding day-to-day waste handling challenges, which were suitably addressed by the resource persons.
The event concluded with a collective resolve to adopt responsible waste management practices and contribute towards making environment clean, green, and sustainable destination.
