Bengaluru, Karnataka: An order issued by the chief commissioner of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) transferring the responsibility of primary waste collection and transportation from Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) to zonal commissioners has triggered widespread debate among citizens, contractors, and civic experts.
According to the order, BSWML will now focus solely on processing and disposal of waste, along with infrastructure development. The primary collection work will eventually be transferred to five new municipal corporations proposed under the Greater Bengaluru Authority.
Background and reason for change
The decision follows Bengaluru’s low ranking—36th out of 40 cities with populations above 10 lakh—in the Swachh Sarvekshan 2024 survey. The survey evaluates cleanliness based on visible garbage, waste processing efficiency, and hygiene in public spaces.
Previously, BBMP handled street sweeping, toilet maintenance and lake cleanliness, while BSWML managed door-to-door waste collection, transportation, processing, and disposal.
Citizen and contractor reactions
Civic activist Ram Prasad V supported the division of responsibilities but questioned financial clarity. “If the garbage cess and user fee go to BBMP, how will BSWML become self-sufficient? Revenue streams from compost sales, CNG production, and recycling must be allocated to BSWML,” he said, adding that BSWML should function more like a corporate entity with strong accountability.
BSWML CEO Karee Gowda, who assumed office recently, has initiated inspections to ensure compliance by waste contractors. Notices have been issued for violations such as lack of proper uniforms, absence of licences, and broken RFID tracking devices on vehicles.
However, garbage contractors expressed concerns over early mustering times and reduced payments in new tenders. “The collection plan is impractical, and discrepancies in data lead to unfinished work, causing garbage blackspots,” said S. N. Balasubramanian, president of the BBMP Garbage Contractors Association.
Future of waste management
While BBMP zones taking over waste collection may streamline accountability, critics warn of bureaucratic inefficiencies and potential service gaps. Sources suggest the order might be withdrawn soon, with responsibilities returning to BSWML.
Conclusion
As Bengaluru battles poor cleanliness rankings, the tug-of-war between BBMP and BSWML reflects deeper challenges in waste management. Clarity on roles, accurate data, financial transparency, and stricter accountability mechanisms will be crucial in determining whether the city can reverse its declining sanitation standards.