ABBOTTABAD: Residents have expressed grave concern over contamination of natural water sources in Galyat region after wastewater allegedly discharged from commercial establishments polluted several springs supplying drinking water to local communities.

According to a written complaint submitted to Bagnotar police station by former tehsil council member Shiraz Khan, sewage collected from hotels and other commercial buildings in Circle Galyat is allegedly being transported via tankers and dumped into nearby ditches and ravines.

The practice has reportedly contaminated five natural springs that supply water to multiple local water schemes.

The affected schemes include the Abbottabad Gravity Flow Scheme, Dhamtor Water Supply Scheme, Geh and Thathi Chattar Nath water schemes and two water supply projects in Village Council Bagnotar. Residents have reported foul-smelling water flowing through household taps, unsuitable for domestic use.

Following complaints, a delegation of local elders conducted an inspection and allegedly found evidence that waste was being dumped during nighttime hours directly impacting natural water reservoirs. Despite repeated complaints, residents say no effective action was taken to prevent the pollution.

As a result, many residents have disconnected their water supply connections, causing shortages of drinking water for thousands of people including educational institutions and the Bagnotar police station.

The complainants have urged the deputy commissioner Abbottabad and the director general of the Galyat Development Authority to take immediate action against those responsible and ensure the protection of vital water resources.

ANTI-ENCROACHMENT DRIVE: Cantonment Board Abbottabad has launched a comprehensive anti-encroachment campaign across the city to remove illegal structures and unauthorised constructions, particularly those obstructing drains and public spaces.

Cantonment executive officer Umar Masoom Wazir directed the enforcement squad to intensify operations against encroachments. The campaign is being conducted jointly by the Cantonment Board staff, local police and officials of the drawing branch.

Authorities are inspecting ongoing and completed construction projects to verify whether they conform to the approved building plans. Officials warned that any structure erected without prior approval will not only be demolished but legal proceedings will also be initiated against violators under the Cantonments Act, 1924.

Residents have been advised to voluntarily remove unauthorised encroachments or complete the required approval procedures and legal formalities.

Published in Dawn, June 18th, 2026