Building debris still being dumped in catchment areas

Although the government claims that it has taken steps to curb the dumping of construction and demolition (C&D) waste at the Bellandur and Varthur valleys and catchment area, indiscriminate dumping was seen even on Wednesday afternoon.

Mahendra Jain, additional chief secretary, along with heads of Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) had visited the location after receiving complaints from citizens. Though the officials claimed that garbage and C&D waste dumping had stopped, the DH team saw debris sill being dumped.

There was no police security or any official from any civic agency on the ground clearing the debris. All the JCBs were removed. Vehicles carrying loads of C&D waste were found to be reaching the catchment and valley area for dumping. When questioned, one of the vehicle drivers who was with two construction workers, said he was directed to dump the sand and stones near the lake by his boss Bala. The driver said the land belonged to Bala and he was engaged in construction business.

“I have been directed to do this,” the driver said.

Orders issued
When this was brought to the notice of BDA and KSPCB officials, they said the matter will be looked into. Jain maintained that orders have been issued to stop the dumping and to remove the vehicles. “I have also directed the officials to identify the accused and bring the accused to book,” Jain added. 

Boards to be installed
“I have ordered a survey to ascertain whether it is private land or government land. If it is a private land, it will be levelled and if it is government land, it will be taken back. Steps will be taken to instal boards and fence the area,” Jain said.

A BDA official, who did not want to be named, sought proof of waste still being dumped from the reporter and said action will be taken thereafter.