Residents Alarmed by Garbage Crisis Near National Highway in Semiliguda

Residents in Semiliguda are increasingly alarmed by a significant garbage pile near National Highway 26, which poses serious health and safety risks. The municipality's neglect has led to stray animals scavenging through the waste, raising fears of accidents among commuters. Despite numerous complaints, locals feel unheard as the situation worsens, with the area becoming a breeding ground for disease. The executive officer of Sunabeda Municipality has promised action, but community members remain skeptical until they see real changes. This pressing issue highlights the urgent need for effective waste management in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 22, 2025, 10:34 IST

Growing Garbage Concerns in Semiliguda

NARENDRA RAUT, OP

Semiliguda: A significant accumulation of uncollected waste near Jagannath Kalyan Mandap, adjacent to CNC Hotel along National Highway 26 in Semiliguda, has raised serious alarm among local residents. The municipality's failure to uphold cleanliness standards has exacerbated the situation.

The neglected garbage has become more than just an unsightly problem; it is luring stray animals like cows and dogs, posing a danger to drivers on the increasingly busy highway.

With fast-moving vehicles and animals wandering near the trash, locals are anxious about the potential for accidents.

R Narayan Rao, a concerned resident, expressed, “This issue transcends hygiene; it’s evolving into a safety hazard. Daily, we witness cows consuming plastic, dogs squabbling over leftovers, and children having to navigate perilously close to the highway to escape the foul odor.”

Namita Patra, who resides approximately 200 meters from the garbage site, added, “The smell is intolerable, the animals are becoming aggressive, and illnesses are on the rise.”

She lamented, “It feels as though our voices are falling on deaf ears,” noting that despite numerous complaints to municipal authorities, no effective measures have been implemented.

The situation has deteriorated due to the humid and rainy conditions, transforming the area into a breeding ground for flies, mosquitoes, and various airborne illnesses.

In response to these escalating concerns, Sujit Choudhary, the executive officer of Sunabeda Municipality, stated, “We are aware of the garbage issue along the national highway at this location. We will promptly install a proper dustbin to facilitate organized waste disposal.

Furthermore, I will personally oversee the contractor's work to ensure they meet cleanliness standards and are held accountable,” he assured.

However, community members remain skeptical. Until these assurances lead to tangible improvements, the garbage continues to decay, stray animals wander perilously close to fast traffic, and residents are left to cope with the ongoing mess and the inaction from authorities.