In a significant push toward cleaner public spaces, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has completed the installation of solar-powered CCTV cameras at garbage dumping black spots across all 60 wards under the Swachh Bharat Mission 1.0. The ₹45-lakh project covers installation, commissioning, and one year of maintenance.
According to Dayanand Poojary, MCC’s Environment Engineer, the camera setup was completed recently. The new solar-powered surveillance system enables real-time monitoring from the MCC’s central control unit. Two staff members have been assigned to retrieve footage regularly and coordinate with ward health inspectors.
“The recorded visuals will help identify individuals or vehicles involved in illegal dumping. We will also share the footage with local police and circulate it on social media to deter repeat offenses,” said Poojary. Vehicle registration numbers captured during violations will be forwarded to police for legal action.
Initially, a penalty of ₹500 will be imposed on violators to raise awareness. The fine amount may be increased over time to enforce stricter compliance.
Of the 62 cameras, 52 have been positioned at identified black spots, while eight are installed at the Pachanady waste management plant to oversee internal operations. Health officials will monitor the waste management process at Pachanady through a dedicated mobile application.
Previously, MCC had installed 10 cameras at selected locations, bringing the total number of operational CCTV units across the city to 62. These systems are expected to go live within a week.