Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) is set to intensify its autumn sanitation measures, with a focus on the scientific management of fallen leaves, decentralised composting and prevention of indiscriminate waste dumping and open burning under the leadership of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Basharat Qayoom.
The seasonal initiative seeks to address the accumulation of leaf litter across roads, footpaths, parks and institutional premises, which, if left unattended, can obstruct drainage channels, affect urban cleanliness and contribute to air pollution when burnt.
Emphasising the need for a scientific and sustainable approach, Commissioner SMC, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, said, “Autumn waste management requires a planned and coordinated response. Fallen leaves and other biodegradable waste should not be treated merely as refuse but as a resource that can be put to productive use through segregation and composting. Our focus is on ensuring cleaner neighbourhoods while promoting environmentally responsible practices.”
The Commissioner has stressed the need to move beyond routine collection and disposal towards a systematic approach that prioritises resource recovery. The proposed measures include dedicated leaf-litter collection, segregation at source, composting and the use of processed organic matter for horticultural purposes.
Ward-level sanitation teams will be tasked with identifying leaf-fall hotspots and vulnerable drainage points, while additional sanitation rounds will be undertaken in areas requiring intensified attention. Particular emphasis will be placed on preventing leaves and other waste from entering drains and water bodies, including the Jhelum, Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake.
“Keeping drains free from leaves and waste is essential to maintaining effective drainage and preventing avoidable blockages. All concerned officers must ensure timely clearance of vulnerable points, with particular attention to areas prone to waterlogging and locations adjoining our water bodies,” Dr. Qayoom said.
The Corporation will also strengthen monitoring through ward-wise sanitation plans, field inspections and periodic reporting by the concerned supervisory officers. Government institutions, commercial establishments, residential communities and other bulk generators of horticultural waste will be encouraged to adopt on-site or cluster-level composting wherever feasible.
Open burning of leaves and municipal waste will be discouraged through public awareness and addressed under applicable legal provisions. Citizens will be encouraged to keep leaf litter separate from mixed waste and hand it over through authorised collection arrangements.
Calling for active public participation, the Commissioner said, “The success of these measures depends not only on the efforts of sanitation teams but also on the cooperation of citizens, institutions and market associations. Segregating leaf litter, avoiding open burning and ensuring that waste does not enter drains or water bodies are simple yet significant steps towards a cleaner and healthier Srinagar.”
The initiative reflects SMC’s broader focus on sustainable urban sanitation, improved environmental management and citizen participation. By linking seasonal cleanliness with resource recovery, the Corporation aims to reduce avoidable waste transportation and promote more environmentally responsible practices across Srinagar.
SMC has appealed to citizens, institutions and market associations to cooperate with sanitation teams and contribute to keeping the city’s neighbourhoods, public spaces and water bodies clean throughout the autumn season.
