Gaushala land ‘turned into dumping ground’: Dayal Farms locals flag health risks

Lucknow: More than 500 residents living near Dayal Farms on Dewa Road have complained of alleged illegal garbage dumping on a plot they say was earmarked for a gaushala, warning that the area is at risk of turning into an unauthorised dumping ground.Residents alleged that trucks linked to the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) have been unloading waste at the site during late-night hours. They said the dumping has intensified over time, leading to foul odour, unhygienic surroundings and fears of long-term environmental damage and public health risks.“We have been witnessing trucks arriving at night and unloading garbage on this land. What started as a few loads has now become a regular activity. Residents fear that if authorities fail to intervene, the site could soon become another Shivri-like dumping ground in the middle of a residential area,” said Abhay Narayan Singh, president of the Dayal Farms Welfare Association.Singh said residents have approached multiple authorities but have not received a satisfactory response. He added that some truck drivers have claimed the material being dumped is treated waste and would not harm the environment. Locals, however, disputed this, alleging that several vehicles have been dumping freshly generated municipal waste late at night.Residents also raised concerns about groundwater contamination, particularly with the onset of the monsoon. “This is not merely a cleanliness issue. Open dumping of municipal waste generates toxic leachate, especially during the monsoon season. Such liquid waste can percolate through the soil and eventually reach groundwater reserves. Many households in nearby areas depend on groundwater and there is a genuine fear that the water table could become contaminated over time,” said Peeyush Rai, a resident.Health risks were another major concern cited by locals. “Heaps of garbage attract stray animals, flies, mosquitoes and rodents. During summer and the rainy season, such conditions can contribute to the spread of vector-borne and water-borne diseases. Children and elderly residents are particularly vulnerable,” said Vijayant Nigam, another resident.Questioning the use of the land, residents said they were surprised to see waste being dumped at a location they believe was designated for a gaushala. They demanded clarity on who authorised the dumping and whether environmental norms are being followed. The residents have sought immediate intervention by the district administration and civic authorities, a detailed inquiry into the alleged dumping, and restoration of the land for its stated purpose. They also called for scientific waste management practices to prevent threats to the local environment and public health.Sanjeev Pradhan, environmental officer at LMC, said the issue had come to the department’s notice and a survey would be conducted to identify measures to provide relief.LMC commissioner Gaurav Kumar said a probe would be conducted and that no fresh waste would be dumped at the site.