Irregular door-to-door garbage collection in several parts of Bengaluru has triggered growing frustration among residents, who say overflowing waste bins, foul odours and insect infestations have become part of daily life.
Residents from multiple neighbourhoods have complained that waste collection vehicles are either skipping visits or arriving only once every few days. In some areas, garbage is reportedly being collected only once a week, leading to piles of waste accumulating inside homes and on streets.
Residents question waste management system
Many residents have raised concerns over the effectiveness of the city’s waste management system despite paying user fees for garbage collection services.
A resident from Marathahalli alleged that garbage collection vehicles did not visit the locality for four to five days. While waste from paying guest accommodations was eventually collected, individual households were reportedly turned away, forcing residents to retain waste for extended periods.
Several citizens said complaints lodged through official apps and helplines have yielded little response.
Hygiene concerns grow
The situation has become particularly difficult for senior citizens and families living in densely populated areas. Residents say uncollected waste attracts insects, rodents and stray animals, creating health and sanitation risks.
In HBR Layout, locals claimed garbage remained uncleared for several days despite repeated complaints. Waste dumped on roadsides was reportedly scattered by stray dogs, worsening the problem.
Residents of Bommasandra also expressed concern over delays in dry waste collection, which they said now occurs only once a week or even less frequently.
Authorities to review complaints
Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) Chief Executive Officer Karee Gowda said he would look into the issue after reports of collection delays surfaced.
Sources indicated that the disruption could be linked to ongoing administrative issues involving proposed garbage collection contracts that are awaiting government approval.
As Bengaluru prepares for the monsoon season, residents are urging authorities to restore regular waste collection services and prevent a larger public health challenge from emerging.