As D K Shivakumar takes charge as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, apartment residents across Bengaluru are preparing to raise what they describe as one of the city’s most pressing civic concerns—a waste management policy that has significantly increased costs for apartment dwellers.
Residents and housing associations claim the policy, introduced a year ago, imposes disproportionately high waste collection charges on apartment complexes while independent houses continue to pay nominal fees through property tax.
Residents allege unfair pricing
Under the existing system, independent houses pay between ₹1,200 and ₹1,800 annually towards waste collection, with the amount collected alongside property tax and exempt from GST.
However, apartment complexes categorised as Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs) must engage authorised waste processors and pay charges based on the volume of waste generated. Residents say the effective cost can reach ₹12 per kg, pushing annual waste management expenses to over ₹5,000 per flat, including GST.
Associations cite steep increase in costs
According to the Bangalore Apartments Federation (BAF), the revised framework has led to a sharp increase in waste management expenses. A 150-unit apartment complex that previously spent around ₹9,000 per month could now pay nearly ₹54,000, while larger complexes may face even steeper costs.
BAF President Satish Mallya said the disparity between charges for apartments and independent houses was difficult to justify. He added that many resident associations had not budgeted for such a significant increase and could face challenges collecting the additional amount from homeowners.
Monopoly concerns raised
Residents have also questioned the empanelment process adopted by Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML). Earlier, apartment associations could choose from multiple waste processing agencies. Under the current system, only one authorised vendor operates in each jurisdiction, reducing competition and limiting residents’ ability to negotiate rates.
BAF Joint Secretary Valli Srinivasan said some private vendors are now charging a flat ₹300 per apartment every month, in addition to 18 per cent GST, substantially increasing household expenses.
Appeal to new Chief Minister
Apartment associations are expected to seek DK Shivakumar’s intervention, urging the government to review the policy, restore competitive pricing and ensure equitable treatment for all Bengaluru residents