BENGALURU
Bengaluru is set to enforce stricter waste management rules from April 1, with authorities cracking down on citizens who fail to segregate their garbage at source.
Under the new Solid Waste Management Rules-2026, implemented by the Greater Bengaluru Authority and Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited, waste segregation has been made mandatory for all households. From April 1, a special enforcement drive will begin across the city to ensure compliance.
As per the revised rules, residents must separate their waste into categories such as wet waste, dry waste, domestic sanitary waste, and special waste. Despite existing guidelines, many households have continued to hand over mixed waste, increasing the burden on sanitation workers who are forced to sort garbage manually.
To address this issue, strict penalties have been introduced. A fine of Rs 500 will be imposed for the first violation, which will increase to Rs 1,000 for a second offence. Authorities have warned that repeated violations could lead to police complaints being filed against offenders.
The move aims to discourage the practice of giving mixed waste and to streamline waste collection across the city. BSWML has been struggling to control mixed waste collection, and this enforcement is expected to bring discipline in disposal habits.
New guidelines have also been issued for auto tipper staff responsible for garbage collection. They have been instructed to collect only properly segregated waste and to strictly avoid picking up mixed garbage. In addition, sanitation workers must wear proper safety gear while on duty.
The rules mandate the use of uniforms and protective equipment such as gloves, masks, gumboots, and other safety tools during waste collection. This step is aimed at ensuring both worker safety and efficient waste handling.
