Residents and commuters are facing severe hardship due to the continued dumping and burning of municipal waste beside the busy Chattogram–Ramgarh road in Nazirhat municipality.
Locals alleged that the practice has been continuing for years, exposing thousands of people to toxic smoke, foul odour, and potential health risks.During a recent visit to the Suabil area near a rice mill, this correspondent found large piles of garbage spread along the roadside. Parts of the waste were burning, releasing thick smoke, while pedestrians were seen covering their noses as they passed through the area.
According to locals, several tonnes of waste have accumulated at the site.The dumping ground is located beside the Mandakini canal, which is connected to the Halda river, raising concerns over possible water contamination. Waste has spread close to the canal bank, while nearby trees appear dried and damaged.
“The garbage is brought here almost every night by municipal trucks. In the morning, the smell becomes unbearable. People cannot pass without covering their noses,” said Kamal Hossain, a local shop owner.
Mohammad Shafi, a CNG-run auto-rickshaw driver, said the situation worsens when the waste is set on fire.”After dumping, the garbage is burned. The smoke, along with the stench, makes it very difficult for us to drive and for passengers to travel,” he said.
Municipal sources said around 8–10 tonnes of waste are collected daily from households and markets and dumped at the roadside due to the absence of a designated disposal facility.A municipal official, requesting anonymity, acknowledged the problem, saying the current location is being used temporarily as there is no suitable dumping site away from residential areas.
