Surrounded by forests and dotted with water bodies, Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital Srinagar was known for fresh air till few years ago. In 2023, Srinagar ranked 4th in a city-wise survey on air quality across the country. In the latest Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026, Srinagar has obtained 26th rank as per new parameters for measuring air quality.

Though it is a matter of concern, it throws a challenge for improving air quality. Srinagar scored 162.6 points while Delhi, which has been topping the country’s worst air quality, has secured the 21st rank with 172 points. The assessment of air quality is based on several parameters including measures to address road dust management, solid waste management, vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction waste, demolition waste and other emission sources.

Srinagar is grappling with solid waste management of over 600 metric tonnes per day. The problem is compounded by legacy waste of 11 lakh tonnes which has accumulated over decades at Achan landfill site. With rise in temperature, a pungent smell emanating from the landfill site engulfs entire Srinagar and causes air pollution. The National Green Tribunal has passed a slew of directions to ensure scientific garbage disposal at Achan. The J&K Government recently approved a Rs 361-crore 800-TPD Integrated Solid Waste Management project at the site to put in place a mechanism for scientific collection, segregation, processing and disposal capacity.

It has been........

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