Garbage dump near JUST gates sparks health concerns

A large pile of garbage dumped along a roadside between two entrance gates of Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST) has caused health concerns and inconvenience for students and pedestrians. 
Students said waste had been dumped at the site for the past five to six months, turning it into an open dumping ground close to the university gates and student accommodation facilities.
Students alleged that owners of nearby hotels and restaurants dump waste at the site using drums, mostly under the cover of darkness. Workers at nearby student messes also reportedly dispose of household waste there using buckets.
Akib Iqbal, a student of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering department from the 2021-22 academic session, said "The foul smell and environmental pollution are disrupting our daily lives. We urged the university administration to take immediate steps to remove the garbage and ensure a clean environment," he said. Md Abdullah Biswas, a student of the Physical Education and Sports Science department from the 2023-24 academic session, said the stench made it difficult to use the road. JUST Proctor Dr Hamidur Rahman said he had already been informed about the matter and referred it to the university's environment committee for necessary action. Prof Dr Manjurul Hoque, convener of the environment committee, said they were aware of the situation and would take initiatives to resolve the problem soon. He said the committee would hold discussions with those responsible for dumping waste to find a solution.
"As the site is outside the university boundary, we cannot take direct enforcement action. However, since our students regularly use the road, we are giving the matter the highest priority," he added.