BENGALURU
Government of India introduced the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026, requiring homes to separate waste into four types, but early challenges are already visible in Bengaluru. The system adds “special care waste” like bulbs and medicines to existing categories. Officials from Bangalore Solid Waste Management Limited say the city is preparing quickly, even though there is an 18-month timeline. However, residents and groups like Bangalore Apartment Federation raise concerns over high costs, unclear rules, and poor collection systems. Some say private vendors may not handle the waste load properly. Workers also report health risks from sorting mixed waste when citizens fail to separate it. Experts stress that success depends on better awareness, strong systems, and responsible consumption. Without these, the ambitious plan may struggle to deliver real change.