Segregate the garbage you generate, or else pay a fine. The Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) will make segregation of waste at source mandatory from October 1, announced Mayor D. Venkatesh Murthy.
Addressing reporters here Wednesday along with BBMP Commissioner Rajneesh Goel, he conceded that the BBMP is yet to finalise the fine amount. While the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976 allows a fine of only Rs. 10, the BBMP may up it to Rs. 100 under the Municipal Solid Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2000.
Court directive
This comes two days after the High Court directed the BBMP to make segregation of garbage at source mandatory. Thereafter, the civic authority held a series of meetings with solid waste management experts and chalked out an action plan.
It is understood the BBMP is now looking to involve non-governmental organisations and school and college students to create awareness via the information, education and communication (IEC) mode till October 1. Mr. Murthy said the BBMP would bring garbage clearance under Sakala scheme for time-bound clearance. Once this is done, garbage will have to be cleared within 24 hours from the time a complaint is lodged failing which the official concerned and contractor will be fined. Once the government issues the notification, citizens can call the Sakala helpline (080-44554455) to lodge complaints.
Meanwhile, vacant government land will be identified in all the 198 wards to set up segregation units. NGOs and residents welfare associations, besides rag pickers, will be roped in to help segregate the garbage collected at these units.
Garbage processing
The Commissioner said that a firm had been shortlisted to scientifically process 1,000 tonnes of garbage a day and the work order would be issued shortly. “The firm will require at least two years to set up the unit, which will be on their own land.” Another firm, a frontrunner in generating energy from waste, has also come forward to set up a waste processing unit saying it will do so in just 25 days. “Their proposal is under consideration,” he added.
Deputy Commissioners of districts around the city have been urged to identify land for landfills. The BBMP has also expressed interest for outright purchase or long-term lease of 200 acres for landfills. That apart, survey work is on for 212 acres that is being offered by the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation in exchange for the Kalasipalya bus stand.
Ganesha festival
This year, the public will be allowed to immerse Ganesha and Gowri idols in the designated immersion ponds only till September 30. The Mayor urged the citizens to opt for eco-friendly idols.
