Tensions flared on the outskirts of Bengaluru on Wednesday as local residents and BJP leaders stopped over 300 garbage trucks heading toward Doddaballapur. The standoff erupted in Doda Mankala, where protesters vehemently opposed the dumping of city waste in their area.
The incident follows recent protests in Mahadevapura, prompting the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) to redirect the trucks. Sources indicate that a tragic road accident claiming a child’s life has further fueled public outrage, leading to the blockade.
Led by BJP MLA Dhiraj Muniraju, locals confronted the convoy, demanding an end to the practice. ‘This region is already burdened by existing waste facilities,’ Muniraju told reporters. ‘We won’t allow more trucks without proper permits. They’re being turned back.’
Regional transport officials arrived on scene, issuing fines to several vehicles lacking documentation. Protests have also targeted processing centers in Mittaganahalli and Bellahalli, with accusations of unscientific waste disposal and inadequate funding for village panchayats.
Criticism mounted against GBA’s Solid Waste Disposal CEO Kari Gowda, allegedly responsible for deploying nearly 300 extra trucks to the area. As environmental concerns escalate, authorities are engaging in talks to resolve the crisis and ensure sustainable waste management solutions for Bengaluru’s growing urban challenges.