Bengaluru, 10 Oct

Lokayukta directed the Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA) to issue notices to landowners in Vishweshwaraiah Layout who are neglecting vacant plots and contributing to garbage accumulation.

Acting on a suo motu case, Lokayukta took up the issue after complaints about inefficient waste management in the area.

During a recent hearing, officials from the BDA, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), and Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) discussed the ineffective waste management practices in parts of Rajarajeshwari Nagar Zone, including Vishweshwaraiah Layout. While BBMP is handling garbage collection in the area, BDA's failure to clear dues has been hindering the process.

Lokayukta has instructed BDA to resolve these outstanding issues within two weeks and submit a detailed report. "Landowners must take responsibility for their plots," stated Justice BS Patil in the order. BDA has been directed to either compel the owners to clean up their properties or have BBMP carry out the cleanup at the owners' expense.

Additionally, the Lokayukta has ordered the installation of proper street lighting in the area and directed BBMP to allocate adequate staff and resources for efficient garbage collection.

Bangalore University was asked to submit a report on waste management at  Jnana Bharathi Campus, where littering by morning walkers has become a concern. Measures to address stray dog issues, including sterilisation and rabies control, were also mandated. -Salar News