Bhaderwah, July 14: Once praised as “Mini Kerala” for its civic sense and “Mini Switzerland” for its natural charm, Bhaderwah is now battling a full-blown garbage crisis. With sanitation workers of the Municipal Committee on strike for more than a week, garbage heaps have swallowed roads, markets, and neighborhoods.
Monsoon rains have made things worse. Overflowing drains and waterlogged streets are causing daily hardships and raising fears of an outbreak of diseases. Residents are frustrated and furious. Videos have surfaced showing locals voluntarily clearing drains to prevent flooding. “The administration has left us alone. If we don’t act, who will?” said a youth engaged in the work near hospital link road.
Senior citizens Haq Zargar and Master Iqbal voiced concern: “This is not the Bhaderwah we know. The town is buried in garbage, and the administration remains silent. People must stop littering, and authorities must act now. Clean Bhaderwah, Green Bhaderwah is our shared dream — let’s not let it rot.”
Renowned environmental group Bhaderwah Eco-Watch has appealed to both the public and administration. “We urge people not to litter and maintain Bhaderwah’s legacy. But we also demand immediate action from the authorities before this turns into a health disaster,” said activist Ashfaq Ahmed. Among the loudest voices of concern was Latief Ahmed Goni, a retired administrative officer who expressed his deep dismay on Facebook:
“It is painful to see our beautiful Bhaderwah being buried under filth and garbage. The silence of the administration is criminal. Civic sense must come from both citizens and those in power.”
Citizens across the valley are sharing photos and posts demanding action. The town’s image—once a symbol of literacy, greenery, and peace—is now at risk of being lost under administrative neglect and public indifference. Unless urgent steps are taken, the crisis in Bhaderwah may go from a sanitation emergency to a full-scale public health disaster.
By Mansoor Qadir, JK.
