After introducing a “garbage tax,” the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Ltd (BSWML) is now looking to levy a service fee for handling construction and demolition (C&D) waste. The proposed charge may reach up to ₹960 per tonne, based on quotations from Chaitra Civil Ventures LLP—the sole firm awarded five out of eight tenders floated for the job.
There is no clarity yet on whether citizens will receive any subsidy to cushion this cost. Critics are concerned, especially since a single private agency has been entrusted with the citywide responsibility for collecting and transporting debris. The tender process has raised eyebrows due to minimal competition, with many bidders eliminated over technicalities.
While three tenders remain unresolved, the pricing submitted by Chaitra will significantly influence the final service fee, following the “polluter pays” approach. Initially, the agency was to collect charges directly from waste generators. However, BSWML is reconsidering this, possibly opting to collect the money from citizens and then compensate the contractor.
R. Rajagopalan of the Bengaluru Coalition warned that steep fees may deter public participation. He emphasized that affordability is crucial for community engagement. He also questioned the feasibility of one firm managing operations for a city as vast as Bengaluru.
Experts suggest that collection and transport should have been tendered separately since these functions require distinct expertise. Additionally, concerns persist over the underuse of existing debris plants at Kannur and Chikkajala, casting doubt on the need for more facilities.
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