Garbage crisis grips Cuttack due to dump yard protest, city reels under foul smell

Garbage has been piling up across several wards in Cuttack after waste collection came to a halt for the past three days. The disruption has led to foul odour and unhygienic conditions, sparking concerns among residents over rising health risks.

The crisis intensified after locals in Banki and Brajabiharipur opposed the dumping of city waste in their area. Protesters demanded the closure of the dumping yard, blocking trucks from unloading garbage. As a result, waste has remained uncleared in multiple neighbourhoods.

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Areas such as Badambadi main road, Rajabagicha, Ward 29 and adjoining localities are among the worst affected. Stray animals like cows and dogs have been scattering waste further, worsening the already grim conditions.

Health Concerns Rise in Villages Near Dumpyard

Beyond the city, villagers of Bentua under the Mundali panchayat have complained of severe problems caused by the dumping yard. Locals allege that the foul smell has made life unbearable and is exposing them to diseases.

A local resident expressed deep frustration over the deteriorating conditions in the area, stating, “This place has effectively turned into a garbage depot. They’ve been dumping waste here for nearly five months. With schools, residential buildings, an Aahar Kendra, and a Puja Pandal nearby, it’s causing immense inconvenience. We’re being forced to live in unhygienic conditions.”

Mayor Defends Civic Body’s Stand

Cuttack Mayor stated that the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) has already arranged for alternative measures.

Subash Singh, CMC Mayor, said, "For three days, some local people are not letting garbage trucks dump garbage in Chakradharpur dumpyard. We made several attempts to resolve the issue. Together with the police and local administration, we reached an agreement, even though the residents have encroached upon government land."

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“When they demanded housing, electricity, and lighting facilities, we provided them with everything. However, their demand for a Kalyan Mandap is unreasonable. We cannot allow ourselves to be blackmailed. Some individuals are exploiting the situation for personal gain. The residents occupying the land should not make such demands, as the land was never officially allotted to them,” he further added.