Srinagar, July 24 -- The unit stood just next to a government higher secondary school and private homes. Despite clear violations of environmental laws, local officials looked the other way.

Zahoor Ahmad Dar, a resident of Naidkhai, first raised concerns in 2022 when construction began next to the school. Dust from the site filled classrooms. Noise disrupted lectures. The school principal wrote to the local tehsildar. A report was ordered, but no action followed.

The matter bounced from the SDM's desk to the DC's office, and eventually landed in the Governor's Grievance Cell.

In May 2024, the J&K Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) finally stepped in. It found the unit in violation of both the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution...