Sanitation gaps persist in Sonamarg despite ₹16 lakh contract, stray dog menace rises
Sonamarg, March 18, KNT: Despite expenditure of lakhs of rupees on sanitation, poor waste management continues to plague Sonamarg, with garbage accumulation and a rising stray dog presence causing concern among residents and visitors, sources said.
The issue has raised questions over the effectiveness of sanitation measures in the popular tourist destination, particularly as the peak travel season approaches.
Sources said heaps of garbage have accumulated behind the Sonamarg market, creating unhygienic conditions and attracting a large number of stray dogs, making it difficult for people to pass through the area.
The situation recently turned serious when a person was reportedly attacked and injured by stray dogs in the vicinity.
According to sources, the Sonamarg Development Authority had issued a sanitation contract worth ₹16 lakh for one year to maintain cleanliness in the area. However, residents allege that proper sanitation arrangements remain largely absent.
Garbage continues to pile up behind the market, with the contractor accused of failing to clear the waste regularly.
Sources said that hotel owners and shopkeepers in the market often dump waste behind their establishments, contributing to the growing problem.
“The foul smell and presence of stray dogs have made it difficult for people to move freely,” a local said.
About Sonamarg
Sonamarg, located in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, is a major tourist destination known for its scenic meadows, glaciers and alpine landscape. Situated at an altitude of around 2,700 metres, it serves as a gateway to the Ladakh region via the Srinagar–Leh highway.
The area attracts thousands of tourists annually, particularly during the summer months, and supports a local economy dependent on tourism, hospitality and seasonal trade.
Officials within the Sonamarg Development Authority said that the enforcement wing had recently been directed to impose heavy fines on those found dumping garbage improperly.
They added that instructions were also issued to the contractor to immediately clear the accumulated waste behind the market.
However, locals said there has been little visible improvement on the ground.
Locals and stakeholders expressed concern that poor sanitation could negatively impact Sonamarg’s reputation as a tourist destination.
“Sonamarg is known for its natural beauty. Such conditions can harm tourism and the environment,” a shopkeeper said.
Sources further said that the drainage system installed in the area is non-functional and has not received adequate attention, adding to the sanitation issues.
The situation highlights gaps in implementation despite allocated funds, with locals calling for stricter monitoring and accountability. . [KNT]
