The upmarket BTM Layout suffers from a number of civic issues, including burning of garbage, waste dumps and innumerable potholes. Residents are livid that the garbage is burnt in broad daylight but no Palike official takes the initiative to catch the violators. The area needs more CCTV cameras to prevent such violations
Bengaluru: BTM Layout is one of the largest areas in the city, which attracts former top bureaucrats and office-goers, because of its infrastructure and accessibility. But despite being considered plush, the area sees rampant burning of waste, innumerable garbage dumps and roads filled with potholes.
The most notorious part of the layout is Udupi Garden Signal, where garbage is burnt regularly and in broad daylight. The toxic smoke emanating from the pile engulfs houses all around.
“The BBMP should install CCTV cameras to prevent such violations. Already, the area is choked with construction activity, which has led to spread of dust everywhere. On top of it, some lumpen elements burn garbage in brazen violation of norms. Who should put an end to this,” asked Mr Manjunatha, a local businessman.
“In some remote areas, like Kasturi Nagar, garbage is usually burnt at night and the mafia escapes from getting caught. But here, it is done in broad daylight and the authorities are not catching the violators," said Mr Amit Gowda, a local resident and a businessman.
Garbage dumping and burning extends up to Gurappanapalaya and S.G. Palaya. Mr Manjunatha said that eateries shut shop around 11 pm, collect all the garbage they generate throughout the day and dump it wherever they want. “If the BBMP conducts raids around that time, owners of such outlets can be fined. The Palike should deploy marshals who can deal with violators. If we try to stop them, God knows what these rowdies will do to us," he said.
The area-wise Air Quality Index (AQI) data released by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) regularly puts BTM Layout on top for its worst air quality.
The residents also pointed to unnecessary speed-breakers every few metres at critical junctions in the second stage of the area.
“These road humps need to be removed and potholes filled. The condition of the road near Lakshmi Theatre is pathetic, and one cannot drive through this stretch. No one knows when it will be repaired,” Mr Gowda said.
Q & A with Mayor Gangambike
Both residents and officials have to work together to stop the menace: Mayor Gangambike
There have been several complaints against illegal dumping and burning of garbage?
This is really unfortunate and my personal opinion is that the residents should come out against this. Their steely resolve against the menace will solve the issue. I will direct officials to look into this.
How crucial is the cooperation from citizens in keeping the city clean?
It is very vital. Some repeat offenders wear masks, dump garbage and put it on fire.
The residents say that CCTV cameras should be installed to check the violation...
We have already allotted funds for the cameras and if more is needed we will give more funds. Both residents and officials have to work together to stop the menace.
