Bengaluru, 6 Sept

Indian Christian Cemetery off Hosur Road is facing a dual threat of rampant garbage disposal and encroachment. Piles of waste-transportation trucks line the cemetery’s perimeter, creating an unsanitary environment for people who come to pay their last respects for the departed.

“Whenever there is a funeral, there is a gathering of 100 to 200 people, but there is no space for parking due to the constant presence of these trucks,” an official attached with the cemetery told Salar News.

Adding to the woes, the footpath has been encroached by units manufacturing cement pots and the area is littered, making it nearly impossible for pedestrians to walk and visitors to park their vehicles. Opposite to the cemetery, a gas agency has permanently parked its trucks and continues to refill and distribute cylinders from the same spot.

Joseph B, a visitor to the cemetery, said “With no proper space left for us, we are forced to park far away and walk long distances, which is especially difficult for the elderly.”

Representatives of the church managing the cemetery have written multiple letters to BBMP, urging them to take immediate action as All Souls' Day (2 November) is round the corner. “Despite repeated complaints to BBMP and police, no action has been taken to address the situation,” the church official said.

Santhosh G, Assistant General Manager of Dry Waste Collection Centre of BBMP near the cemetery, told Salar News “We have received no such complaints yet. But if we receive it, we will look into the matter.” -Salar News