Toxic Fumes from Dharwad Landfill Trigger Protests

Dharwad: Residents of Hosayellapur, who demonstrated on Tuesday against hazardous chemical fumes from the Dharwad landfill, continued their agitation on Wednesday, demanding immediate action.

Angry locals blocked garbage trucks, refusing to allow waste disposal at the landfill. They warned officials that until their concerns were addressed, they would not permit any more garbage to be dumped. Upon receiving information, HDMC Commissioner Rudresh Ghali, along with civic and police officials, visited the protest site and attempted to calm the demonstrators.

Residents expressed frustration over the unbearable stench and toxic emissions, which have made daily life difficult. The fumes are causing severe respiratory issues, skin irritation, and eye discomfort, particularly affecting the elderly, pregnant women, and children. With over 80,000 people residing in 20,000 households in the affected zone, the health risks have escalated.

Protesters highlighted that chemical-laden ash settles on household items and clothes, further worsening living conditions. Despite repeated demands for relocating the landfill, HDMC has failed to act, leaving locals to suffer.

In response, Commissioner Ghali requested 30 days to devise a long-term solution. As an interim measure, security personnel will be stationed to prevent garbage fires, and regular water spraying will be implemented to control toxic reactions, especially from plastic waste.

Shrikanth Betageri, a local resident, pointed out that improper waste segregation is the root cause of the crisis. He urged authorities to enforce stricter waste management policies to curb pollution and improve air quality.

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