As Eid-ul-Adha approaches, health and environmental experts have raised serious concerns over the improper disposal of animal waste, stressing the urgent need for scientific waste management to protect public health and the environment during the festival of sacrifice.
Dr Mohammad Salim Khan, Head of the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College Srinagar, said that Eid-ul-Adha should remain a day of spiritual reflection and sacrifice, not a cause for environmental degradation or public health emergencies.
“The sacrifice must be performed hygienically, and all by-products like blood, offal, and hides must be disposed of in a clean, scientific manner—especially keeping in view the summer season and the risk of disease outbreaks,” he said.
He warned that scattered animal waste can serve as breeding grounds for water-borne, food-borne, and vector-borne diseases. “Unattended waste attracts flies, mosquitoes, and scavengers, and when dumped in water bodies or open drains, it contaminates both surface and groundwater, posing a serious health hazard,” he added.
Dr Khan called for special emphasis on cleanliness at slaughtering sites and recommended using surface disinfectants to maintain hygiene. “Municipal authorities have geared up to manage waste collection. It’s our duty as responsible citizens to abide by their guidelines and ensure cleanliness in our surroundings. The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – ‘Cleanliness is half of faith’ – must be practised, especially on occasions like Eid,” he said.
He urged the community to extend the spirit of World Environment Day, observed today throughout the year, emphasising sustainability and responsible actions. “Let’s resolve this Eid to adopt eco-friendly practices. Our planet is already suffering due to our greed and negligence. This is a collective responsibility,” Dr Khan added.
Dr Umar, an Assistant Professor of Environmental Sciences, said the improper disposal of animal remains significantly contributes to pollution, the spread of diseases, and unpleasant odours. “Strict waste management protocols must be in place. Municipalities should set up designated disposal sites and strengthen collection services during Eid,” he said.
Dr Umar stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns and the use of biodegradable waste bags. “Community participation in cleanup drives will ensure better hygiene and protect the local ecosystems,” he added.
Firdous Ahmad, Executive Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, highlighted the impact on water sources. He urged citizens not to throw animal waste on roadsides or into water bodies.
“People must act responsibly by burying the waste in pits or collecting it at a designated location in their village or mohalla. The government should ensure timely collection and scientific treatment of this waste at district-level plants,” he said—(KNO)
