MANSEHRA: The concerned authority has failed to check throwing of garbage into the Kunhar River, which is not only polluting its water but also environs of the picturesque Kaghan Valley.

“The garbage dumps are ruining the natural beauty of Kaghan valley thanks to the indifference of the tehsil municipal administration, Balakot, which is supposed to keep the valley clean,” Ali Asghar, a tourist, regretted.

Often, the TMA staff, instead of removing the garbage dumps, put these on fire, which causes air and water pollution. Tourists also witnessed a huge garbage dump put on fire near Naran, the commercial headquarters of Kaghan valley.

It is observed that hoteliers in Naran also throw rubbish into the Kunhar River, causing water and air pollution.

“Owing to rapid industrialisation in Naran, the natural beauty of the region is at stake as trout fish, which is considered as the tastiest in the country, is dying fast due to the polluted water of the river. But, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Environmental Agency and other concerned departments are showing least interest in controlling this illegal practice,” lamented Mr Asghar.

A woman tourist, Shahbana, said if the government didn’t take sincere steps in preserving the natural environment of the serene valley it would also lose its natural charm.

Published in Dawn, July 26th, 2016