Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 16: A delegation from the Jammu and Kashmir Dental Council, led by its president, Dr Bhupinder Singh, has again raised concerns with the Pollution Control Board (PCB) regarding exorbitant bio-medical waste lifting charges imposed on dental clinics by Anmol Healthcare.
During a meeting with a senior PCB officer, the delegation highlighted that despite repeated appeals and a formal letter sent to the Board on August 27, 2024, the issue remains unresolved. This ongoing challenge has caused significant distress and financial strain among dental professionals across the Union Territory.
The delegation informed the officer that earlier also they had expressed dismay with PCB over the unreasonable fees levied by Anmol Healthcare, which far exceed those in neighboring states like Punjab.
Dr Bhupinder revealed that Anmol Healthcare has claimed a monopoly over bio-medical waste management in the region, stating it “cannot be challenged.” Adding to the issue, Dr Singh pointed out the disparity in charges between Jammu and Kashmir regions, with significantly lower fees imposed on clinics in Kashmir. This inconsistency has left dental professionals in Jammu feeling unfairly burdened.
The J&K Dental Council reiterated that dental clinics should be treated as non-bedded healthcare facilities, similar to regulations in neighboring states like Punjab. They generate far less bio-medical waste compared to hospitals, and imposing high fees is both unjust and financially burdensome.
The concerned PCB officer assured the delegation that the matter would be addressed within a week. However, the Dental Council warned that if a resolution is not reached promptly, the issue will be escalated to higher authorities.
Dr Singh emphasized that the Council would not back down, urging authorities to take swift action. Accompanying him during the meeting were Dr Pankaj, Dr Burrhan, Dr Vasu, and other dental surgeons, all expressing their collective frustration with the current system.
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