Garbage collection disrupted in Siddharthanagar after court order

Siddharthanagar is grappling with a significant waste management crisis after the Supreme Court issued an interim order to cease dumping along the Danda Khola riverbank. This judicial intervention, prompted by a writ petition from concerned citizens highlighting severe pollution and foul odors, has brought municipal waste collection to a standstill. The ruling affects the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, various environmental ministries, and the Lumbini Province government, underscoring the widespread impact of the issue.

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Residents of Darkhaswa had been protesting, saying the stench made it difficult to stay indoors, while dumping along the riverbank affected the environment and disrupted travel along the Butwal–Belahiya section.

Residents, particularly in the Darkhaswa area, have long suffered from the unbearable stench, which has also impacted the environment and disrupted travel, notably along the busy Butwal–Belahiya section. Tourists arriving from India have been among those most affected, forced to endure the unpleasant conditions. The court's order, following a preliminary hearing and show-cause notice, now necessitates urgent alternative solutions.

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On Tuesday morning, the municipality issued a notice via social media asking residents not to dump waste on roads until further arrangements are made, and to manage it by separating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste and storing it in sacks or plastic bags.

In response, Siddharthanagar Municipality is scrambling to find new waste disposal sites and has reiterated its appeal to residents to segregate biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. Businesses, including hotels and restaurants, have also been advised to manage waste on their premises. While discussions for alternative sites are underway, the immediate disruption has raised concerns about waste accumulation. This situation highlights the critical need for sustainable waste management infrastructure and the challenges faced by municipalities in balancing environmental protection with public health and sanitation services.

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We are considering managing waste by identifying municipal land as an alternative to Danda Khola. All wards are positive about this.