Mahindra Patial
Bharmour
A persistent fire at the only dumping site in the tribal region of Bharmour has triggered serious health and environmental concerns among nearby residents. Despite ongoing efforts by the local administration, the blaze—active since Saturday night—remained uncontrolled as of Wednesday, releasing thick smoke and foul odor across the region.
Angered by the situation, representatives from surrounding panchayats and local villagers met Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Bharmour, Kulveer Singh Rana, on Tuesday and submitted a memorandum addressed to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.
The memorandum highlighted that the dumping site at Patti Nala has been repeatedly catching fire, severely affecting not just Bharmour town but also nearby panchayats including Sanchui, Praghanla, Hadsar, Kugti, Chaubia, and Ghared. The site’s proximity to the new hospital building and mini secretariat has further intensified the crisis, causing discomfort to staff, patients, and the general public.
Residents reported respiratory issues, especially among children and the elderly, due to the polluted air. Despite significant expenditure on waste management, no permanent solution has been implemented. The problem worsens during the Shri Manimahesh Yatra, when large volumes of waste accumulate and later ignite, spreading toxic fumes and stench.
The delegation demanded immediate action to extinguish the fire and urged the government to establish a permanent, scientific waste management system to prevent future incidents.
Local panchayat representatives and villagers submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister via ADM Bharmour regarding the dumping site crisis. Present on the occasion were Sanchui Panchayat Pradhan Sanjeev Thakur, social activists Deep Thakur and Kikar Thakur, Bharmour Vyapar Mandal President Ranjit Sharma, and community members Pawan Patial, Abhilash Patial, and Madan Pakhretia.
Mahender Patyal
