New BBMP helpline promises faster response to cleanliness complaints

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has set up a dedicated complaint redressal system to improve cleanliness in the city. Citizens can report waste-related issues by sending messages along with photos to the WhatsApp number 9448197197.

“Appropriate action will be taken within a stipulated time frame, and follow-up information will be provided by the concerned authorities,” the BBMP said in a statement.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who spoke after launching a slew of initiatives to commemorate World Environment Day, said that he had instructed officials to ensure cleanliness in the city through such programmes.

As part of the event, many RWAs, NGOs, and government agencies received Blue-Green Awards for their work towards building a climate-resilient society.

To raise climate awareness among the youth and develop actionable plans through educational institutions, youth-led ‘Climate Action Clubs’ have been initiated across high schools and pre-university colleges. So far, 706 institutions have registered for this initiative, the BBMP said.

The BBMP has also set a target to plant and maintain one lakh saplings across the city in 2025–26.

“Various native plant species are being cultivated in BBMP nurseries. These saplings will be distributed to the public for planting within the city limits,” the statement said.