With the expiration of the mechanical sweeping contract on February 28, Bengaluru is set to face dustier streets and rising silt accumulation. The BBMP has neither extended the contract nor issued fresh tenders, leaving the city without automated road cleaning from March 1.
The previous contract covered 25 sweeping machines—17 self-propelled and 8 truck-mounted. The contractor, citing legal and financial constraints, declined BBMP’s request for an extension. The agreement, signed in 2017 when fuel prices were lower, is no longer viable due to rising diesel costs and six months of unpaid dues.
BBMP owes the contractor ₹1.2 crore per month, with cleaning rates set at ₹290/km for truck-mounted machines and ₹430/km for self-propelled ones—figures that no longer cover operational expenses.
Residents fear worsening air quality and road safety. Clement Jayakumar of Mahadevapura Task Force highlighted the risks for two-wheeler riders and pedestrians. With spring season in full swing, accumulating dry leaves add to the hazards.
BBMP’s chief engineer, BS Prahalad, stated that all machines would undergo fitness checks, and the civic body is exploring Make-in-India and import options for new service-based contracts. Experts stress that 70-75 machines are required to maintain Bengaluru’s 2,000-km road network, far beyond the existing 25 machines, leading to inconsistent upkeep.
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