Budgam, July 12 (KNS): In a significant step towards ensuring access to clean drinking water and promoting environmental health, the Rural Development Department (RDD) Budgam launched a demolition drive in Raithan village of Khansahib block. Acting on the directives of Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Hilal Ahmad Mir, who also oversees the Rural Waste Management Program in the district, the department demolished more than half a dozen dry lavatories located near freshwater streams on Saturday.

This initiative is aimed at safeguarding water sources that are at risk of contamination due to poorly placed sanitation facilities. Despite Jammu and Kashmir having been declared open defecation free (ODF) under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) years ago, several villages continue to use dry latrines and open defecation practices. Many of these facilities are situated dangerously close to streams and other drinking water sources.

The Jammu & Kashmir RTI Movement (RTIM) has strongly supported the action taken by ACD Budgam and the Block Development Officer (BDO) Khansahib.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelChairman and Founder of RTI Movement Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat stated,

“It is unfortunate that dry latrines and improperly constructed toilets continue to threaten both public health and the environment. Faecal waste from such units often ends up in our streams and water bodies. This concern has already been highlighted in the Doodhganga case, currently being examined by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). I appreciate the action taken by ACD Budgam Mr Hilal ”

Local residents from Raithan and surrounding areas have expressed appreciation for the demolition drive and urged authorities to extend the initiative to other villages within the district. They have also appealed for the implementation of scientific waste management programs in all vulnerable areas, especially near drinking water sources.(KNS)