Biocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has strongly criticised the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) over unchecked garbage dumping and poor sanitation near Berlie Street, close to a cemetery in Bengaluru. Taking to social media platform X, Shaw posted disturbing images of trash piles and people defecating in the open, calling it a sign of “terrible civic sense” and demanding immediate accountability from the civic body. “Disgusting sights at garbage dumping zone near Berlie Street next to cemetery. What’s the matter with @BBMPofficial? Can’t you fine the garbage dumpers and those who don’t clear construction debris?” she wrote.
Her post quickly garnered widespread support, with numerous citizens echoing her frustration and highlighting similar issues in their neighbourhoods. One user questioned why garbage continues to pile up despite increasing property taxes. Shaw recalled a protest from 25 years ago when citizens dumped garbage outside the BBMP office, leading to a cleaner city for years. “Time to do it again,” she suggested. Residents shared complaints of trash being dumped on pavements and medians, including in upscale areas. A resident from Rajarajeshwari Nagar said waste hadn’t been cleared for five days, despite repeated complaints.
“Dumping garbage next to a cemetery is symbolic of our collapsing civic responsibility—from both citizens and officials,” said another. Citizens demanded strict fines for repeat offenders, better surveillance, and a consistent waste collection schedule. Shaw urged BBMP to act swiftly to restore the city’s image, warning that negligence would only further erode Bengaluru’s reputation as the “Garden City.”