Padegaon garbage depot turning into a ‘Factory of Diseases’

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

The health of residents living around the garbage depot at Padegaon is increasingly at risk due to continuous smoke emanating from the dumping yard. Citizens in nearby areas have been complaining of persistent cold, cough, throat irritation, burning sensation in the eyes and excessive watering of the eyes. The situation has become particularly severe for children, senior citizens and people suffering from asthma and allergies.

Residents from Kasambari Dargah area, Gloria City, Lal Mati, Bhavsingpura, Nisarg Colony and other parts of Padegaon have been facing the problem for several days. Locals said the smoke spreads to different areas depending on wind direction, forcing many families to rush children and elderly persons to hospitals.

Doctors in the area confirmed that exposure to the smoke is causing respiratory and eye-related illnesses. Patients suffering from cough, throat irritation and eye problems are frequently visiting clinics.

Morning walks stopped; windows remain shut

Most residents said they now keep doors and windows closed throughout the day, as it becomes difficult to sit inside homes otherwise. Many have also stopped morning and evening walks due to the smoke.

Doctors advise masks and precautions

Doctors have advised residents to use handkerchiefs or, preferably, masks while stepping outside and to keep children away from the smoke as much as possible.

Cataract patient fears vision complications

A family said a patient who recently underwent cataract surgery has been suffering from constant coughing and eye irritation because of the smoke, raising fears of further damage to vision.

Common health complaints among residents

Persistent cough

Throat irritation

Breathing difficulty

Chest heaviness

Burning eyes

Watery eyes

Situation may worsen during monsoon

Residents said that while smoke remains a major issue during summer, the monsoon season brings additional problems due to wet garbage. Rainwater mixing with waste creates foul smell and bacterial growth, affecting public health. Contaminated water spreads in nearby areas, while decomposing garbage causes unbearable stench.

‘This is slow poison’

“Smoke generated from burning garbage and the methane gas released from it act as slow poison for human health. It causes respiratory problems and worsens asthma conditions,” said Dr Abhimanyu Makane.