Garbage piles up in city as cleaners, driver’s stage protest

Bengaluru is facing a major garbage collection crisis as drivers and cleaners of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Solid Waste Management unit have launched an indefinite strike. The strike has halted the movement of 5,300 auto tippers and 700 garbage trucks, disrupting waste collection across the city. The protesters are demanding the implementation of the IPD Salappa report and permanent employment for drivers and cleaners. Hundreds gathered near the BBMP headquarters, raising their concerns, while police detained some demonstrators as a precaution before releasing them later in the evening. Leading the protest, Workers’ Safety Organization President Tyagaraj stated that BBMP has long ignored the drivers and cleaners. He insisted that instead of relying on contractors, they should be hired under a direct payment scheme. The strike, initially involving a small group, is expected to gain momentum as more workers join in. With garbage collection stalled, waste disposal in Bengaluru is becoming a significant concern. Protesters warned that if the strike continues for three days, pollution levels in the city could rise. Activist Katyayani Chamaraj and civil service supporters emphasized the need for BBMP to employ workers directly rather than depending on contractors. The city now faces an urgent waste management crisis, and authorities must find a resolution before the situation worsens. Residents across Bengaluru have started raising concerns over the growing garbage piles, fearing health hazards and worsening hygiene conditions.