Plastic Pollution Crisis in Gilgit Baltistan's City Park

In Gilgit Baltistan, a region under Pakistan's administration, the city park is facing severe plastic pollution despite significant spending on anti-plastic campaigns. Residents are increasingly concerned about the heaps of plastic waste that are not only ruining the park's beauty but also posing health risks, especially to children who play there.

A local resident expressed frustration, saying, "We are fed up with the growing heaps of plastic around us. The government has done nothing to keep the park clean, and it's affecting everyone. Children play here, and the plastic waste is a potential hazard for their health."

One major issue is a large ditch near the park, overflowing with plastic waste. The Gilgit Development Authority (GDA) has been criticized for inadequate waste management, with residents pointing out the absence of dustbins as a key problem.

Another resident emphasized the need for government action, stating, "The government needs to take responsibility for keeping our environment clean. If there were dustbins, people would dispose of their waste properly. Instead, we see plastic littering everywhere, and it's causing diseases. Children are at risk, and the park has become an eyesore."

Despite efforts to promote a plastic-free environment, no significant improvements have been observed. The community is calling for a strict ban on plastic products and immediate cleanup efforts by local authorities to restore the park's cleanliness. They urge the government to provide proper waste management facilities, including dustbins, to address the growing plastic pollution. Without urgent action, the environmental and public health consequences could be severe.