AHMAD NABI
KHYBER
Dwellers of Malkano Kalley, Takhta Baig, in Jamrud demanded legal action against stone-crushing plants posing a constant health menace to them by creating excessive dust pollution.
Younus Khan one of an effectees along with other co-tribesmen said that dust generated by the crushing machines had engulfed the entire village and surrounding areas, exposing children, women and elderly people to various respiratory and other health problems.
Stone-crushing plant owners had failed to install water sprinklers or adopt alternative dust-control measures, allowing huge amounts of dust to spread into nearby residential areas, they alleged.
The residents added that while toxic smoke from industrial units in Hayatabad was already affecting the environment, dust pollution from stone-crushing plants had further worsened the situation, making the area difficult to live in.
Excessive dust pollution had also deprived them of solar energy, as dust accumulated on solar panels reduced their efficiency, making it difficult for them to operate tube wells and pump water, in addition to facing other daily-life hardships, they regretted.
While expressing deep concern over the persistent polluted air they said that unhealthy environment were forcing some families to consider leaving their homes in search of a healthier and safer environment.
The residents appealed to the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the district administration and other relevant authorities to take immediate notice of the situation and ensure the installation of proper dust-control systems.
They also urged to take and initiate legal actions against stone-crushing plant owners violating environmental regulations.
