Visitors to the picturesque Chikkamagaluru district are greeted by alarming heaps of garbage on the outskirts of towns and along the main roads, particularly those leading to ghat sections. This waste, ranging from household items to meat scraps and nappies, is not only tarnishing the area’s natural beauty but also raising serious hygiene concerns.
Towns like Koppa, Mudigere, Sringeri, and Balehonnur are becoming dumping grounds, with Tarikere, Birur, and Kadur suffering worse conditions. Recently, residents of Menase gram panchayat in Sringeri protested against the improper disposal of waste in Kunturu, claiming that 14 cattle died after consuming the dumped waste.
Residents are troubled, with Krishnamurthy of NR Pura taluk pointing out that waste from Koppa town is being dumped in Thalamakki and Sigdal ghat sections. Balachandra of Mudigere expressed concerns that such conditions, particularly the sight of soiled nappies and sanitary items along roads, are damaging the district’s reputation, once known for its pristine greenery.
Authorities, however, have promised action. A local officer mentioned that fines have been imposed on violators, and efforts are underway to streamline waste management across the district. Zilla panchayat CEO HS Keerthana was unavailable for comment.
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