Budgam Crisis:, Oct 14: In a disturbing incident that has angered residents, six dead cows were discovered dumped along the Karshana–Khanshab main road in Budgam district on Monday, raising serious concerns over public health and environmental safety.
According to eyewitnesses, the carcasses were likely transported from a nearby village and abandoned on the roadside several days ago. The decomposing bodies created a foul stench and unsanitary conditions, making life difficult for locals in the area.
“The smell is unbearable. People have to cover their faces while walking through the road,” said a local shopkeeper. “There’s also a risk of contaminating the nearby stream. This isn’t just unpleasant, it’s dangerous.”
Residents said the animals appeared to have died several days prior, and their disposal by unknown individuals under the cover of darkness has sparked outrage across the community.
Volunteers Step In Amid Administrative Delay
With authorities failing to act promptly, local volunteers took matters into their own hands. They arranged a bulldozer and buried the carcasses to prevent disease spread and further environmental damage.
“We couldn’t wait any longer,” said Muzamil Ahmad, a local volunteer. “The stench was making people sick. We acted to protect both public health and the environment. It’s unfortunate that citizens had to take action where officials delayed.”
Environmental activists have condemned the practice, stating it endangers communities and harms the local ecosystem, while urging the District Administration of Budgam to implement stricter measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Public Health and Environmental Concerns
Improper disposal of animal carcasses poses risks including:
- Contamination of water sources
- Spread of diseases such as anthrax and leptospirosis
- Attraction of scavengers and pests
- Foul odor impacting daily life
Authorities are reportedly investigating the incident to identify the individuals responsible for dumping the carcasses. Residents continue to demand accountability and immediate preventive action.
Tags: Budgam, North Kashmir, Dead Cows, Karshana-Khanshab Road, Environmental Hazard, Public Health, J&K News, Times of Kashmir