A laudable initiative in HSR Layout

A laudable initiative in HSR Layout

Disgusted by the indifferent attitude of BBMP, the local RWA launches an awareness campaign on the need for efficient disposal of garbage. Arunima Rajan reports

Arunima Rajan



Around 1,200 residents of HSR Layout, Sector 2, have set an example to the rest of the city by taking upon themselves the responsibility to make their neighbourhood better. BBMP's inefficient system of garbage disposal has stung them into launching a campaign for efficient garbage disposal.
The local RWA has set up a team of 12 members to spread awareness about the need for proper disposal of garbage.
The team distributes pamphlets detailing the need to keep the neighbourhood clean, at shops and houses.
The response has been encouraging, says RS Murthy, President, RWA.
Unauthorised garbage dumps dot Sector 2. Pigs from the local piggery (23rd Main, 17th Cross) feast on these dumps and litter the entire area. Residents fear the lack of cleanliness may lead to an outbreak of disease.
Uncleared garbage on roads leaves little space for pedestrians. The situation at 18th Cross, 24th Main, calls for the immediate intervention of BBMP. Even motorists find it difficult to pick their way. Had BBMP provided a few garbage bins, the situation could have been managed better, say residents. For the last six months, the residents of the area have been fighting for proper garbage disposal. RS Murthy says: "Owners of meat shops in the area dump offal and waste at any place they can find. These shops generate a lot of organic waste. There were over 50 unauthorised garbage dumps here. Since we launched the campaign, the number of dumps has come down."
Residents pay Rs25 per month for BBMP's door-to-door collection of garbage. Apartments in the area have set up an independent system for garbage disposal.
Three months ago, BBMP dug up the road near BESCOM office in HSR Layout. Now, that area has been turned into another garbage dump.
Santhosh Kumar, environment engineer, BBMP, says: "We will evict the unauthorised shops. We have already served them notices. We are also planning to streamline the system of garbage disposal. The door-to-door garbage disposal is not so efficient. I have heard that 50 per cent of residents are not paying the fee and are not using this facility. We are planning to hire private contractors and this will happen within one and half months."