Zemer Residents Protest Illegal Waste Dump Threatening Lives
Translated & summarized from Arab48 by baba
Dozens of residents in Zemer protested an illegal waste dump and its environmental pollution on Friday. The dump, operating for over two years and collecting waste from across the country, has caused significant health issues and distress for the community. Residents are demanding its closure and a return to clean air and safe living conditions.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Dozens of Zemer residents protested an illegal waste dump and its pollution on Friday.
- The dump has been operating for over two years, collecting waste from across the country.
- Residents report severe health issues including cancer and breathing difficulties due to the dump.
- Children are struggling to breathe and cover their noses due to smoke and strong odors.
- Protesters demanded the closure of the dump and the right to clean air and safe living.
Dozens of residents from the town of Zemer in Israel's Triangle region protested on Friday against an illegal waste dump and the resulting environmental pollution. The demonstration, called for by the Zemer local council, targeted the dump located near the village, which has been illegally collecting waste from across the country for profit for over two years.
Protesters carried signs with slogans such as "Our right to breathe clean air," "We are getting cancer and shortness of breath because of the dump," and "The dump means cancer." They demanded solutions and the closure of the site.
Residents voiced their concerns about the ongoing pollution. Hamed Al-Qaisi stated that the suffering from the dump has lasted for years, with smoke and odors rising daily, suspecting the waste originates from hospitals due to its dangerous nature. Nissim Omar lamented that the dump has turned their once clean area into "hell" due to continuous waste burning, threatening everyone's lives.
Children also expressed their distress. Lareen Omar described struggling to breathe on the way to school and needing to cover their noses due to the pollution and strong smells. Aseel Omar noted that waste burning occurs throughout the day and night, forcing residents to keep windows and doors shut and preventing them from using their yards.
Amira Omar shared a personal story of a relative developing lung cancer, attributing it to the fires and odors. She considered selling her home near the dump to protect her family from the resulting illnesses. The residents' demands are for a life of safety, security, and clean air, free from pollution and disease.