The Karnataka government has directed officials to initiate criminal proceedings against individuals and organisations responsible for polluting lakes, rivers, reservoirs and other water bodies by illegally dumping biomedical, medical and electronic waste.
The directive was issued by Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar Khandre during a surprise inspection of Yantaganahalli Gram Panchayat in Nelamangala taluk of Bengaluru Rural district.
Biomedical waste found near village lake
During the visit, villagers complained that medical waste was being dumped into a local lake, raising concerns about environmental contamination and public health risks.
Taking serious note of the allegations, Khandre instructed Taluk Panchayat officials to conduct a detailed investigation and register police cases against those found responsible.
Officials inspecting the area discovered large quantities of biomedical waste in a canal connected to the village lake. The waste reportedly included used syringes, medicine bottles, discarded bandages, expired medicines, hospital mattresses, gloves and personal protective equipment (PPE) kits.
The minister said strict action would be taken against anyone found violating environmental and public health regulations.
Minister reviews civic grievances
The surprise inspection also turned into a review of local governance and public service delivery after residents raised several civic issues.
Responding to complaints about delays in processing 11B applications for property regularisation, Khandre directed officials to clear all pending applications within 15 days.
He also inspected attendance registers at the Gram Panchayat office and warned government staff against absenteeism and delays in reporting for duty.
Officials were instructed to adopt a citizen-friendly approach and ensure villagers do not have to make repeated visits to government offices for routine services.
Focus on drinking water and child welfare
The minister later visited the Hanchipura RO drinking water unit and reviewed its functioning and water quality standards.
He directed officials to conduct regular water quality testing and replace purification membranes periodically to ensure safe drinking water for residents.
Khandre also paid an unannounced visit to a local anganwadi centre, where he inspected food quality and sanitation facilities.
Emphasising public health, he instructed officials to ensure adequate water supply in toilets and maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene for children and villagers.
The minister reiterated that environmental protection, public health and efficient grassroots governance must remain top priorities for local authorities.