The unscientific handling of solid waste at the Katra Railway Station has underscored the urgent need for strict compliance with environmental laws. The holy town of Katra, a pilgrimage destination of immense significance, faces severe environmental degradation due to the reckless disposal and burning of waste. This situation demands immediate corrective measures and strict accountability. The inspection conducted by the Divisional Officer of the Pollution Control Committee Reasi has revealed blatant violations of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and related legislation. Open dumping and burning of mixed waste by the station management have resulted in air and water pollution, threatening the ecological balance and public health. Despite the clear directives from the NGT and the provisions of the Solid Waste Management Bye-Laws, 2019, Katra Railway Station’s management has exhibited a shocking disregard for environmental regulations. The JKPCC’s issuance of a show-cause notice to the Station Superintendent is a necessary first step. The notice, based on the Polluter Pays Principle, highlights the irreversible damage caused by the station’s mismanagement and serves as a warning of impending penalties if corrective actions are not undertaken. Furthermore, the notice underscores the possibility of prosecution under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, should compliance fail.
However, this issue extends beyond Katra Railway Station. Similar violations have been reported in other areas, such as Panchayat Badyal Brahmana in R S Pura, indicating systemic negligence by Government offices and bodies in waste management across multiple jurisdictions. The gravity of the situation in Katra is compounded by its status as a major pilgrimage hub. With the planned increase in train operations up to Baramulla in the Kashmir Valley, the volume of waste generated will inevitably rise. Without immediate intervention, the continued mismanagement of solid waste could further irreparably harm the town’s environment. The railway authorities, local bodies, and state pollution control agencies need to collaborate and ensure strict adherence to waste management laws. The JKPCC’s actions serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders to prioritise sustainability and prevent further degradation of this sacred town’s ecological integrity.