In a bid to improve sanitation and strengthen waste management across the city, the Karnataka government has decided to impose stricter penalties on individuals caught littering in public places. Offenders will not only face increased fines but will also be required to clean up the waste they have dumped.
The decision was taken during a solid waste management review meeting of the Greater Bengaluru Area (GBA), chaired by Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda.
Tougher action against littering
As part of the new measures, officials have been directed to increase the number of marshals monitoring roads and public spaces where littering is frequently reported. Authorities have been instructed to identify offenders, impose penalties and ensure they take responsibility for cleaning the affected areas.
The government believes stricter enforcement will help reduce indiscriminate waste dumping and improve the city’s overall cleanliness.
Focus on waste segregation and composting
The meeting also emphasised strengthening waste segregation and processing systems. Residents will be encouraged to convert wet waste into compost and adopt terrace gardening and home composting practices.
Awareness campaigns will be conducted across Bengaluru to educate households on managing organic waste at source and reducing the burden on waste processing facilities.
The government has also directed civic agencies to ensure garbage collection vehicles reach every household. Residents will be expected to hand over wet and dry waste separately, with only segregated waste being transported for processing.
Special drive to clean major roads
A citywide drive will soon be launched to remove accumulated garbage, construction debris and overgrown weeds from major roads. Officials have been instructed to undertake a comprehensive clean-up to improve public spaces and enhance Bengaluru’s appearance.
Speaking after the meeting, Krishna Byre Gowda said waste management was being reviewed regularly and stressed that public cooperation remained essential for long-term success.
₹2,000 crore grant for ward roads
The minister also announced a special grant of ₹2,000 crore for the improvement of ward roads across the five city corporations under the Greater Bengaluru framework. Officials have been directed to begin resurfacing and development works on damaged roads through short-term tenders.
He added that Bengaluru’s road development programme is progressing under 33 separate project packages, with efforts underway to accelerate infrastructure works despite legal hurdles affecting some projects.