K.R. Market to get CCTV surveillance, stricter cleanliness enforcement

Bengaluru

In a renewed push to improve hygiene and streamline operations at the city's bustling K.R. Market, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has directed officials to install CCTV cameras at specific problem spots to deter illegal dumping of waste and unauthorized vending activities. The move comes as part of a broader cleanliness drive launched by the civic body to restore order in one of the city's busiest commercial hubs.

During an inspection of the market on Friday, West Zone Commissioner Suralkar Vikas Kishore took stock of the prevailing sanitation conditions and issued fresh instructions aimed at achieving long-term cleanliness and discipline in the market.

“K.R. Market generates nearly 70 tonnes of waste every day, which is cleared in three shifts. However, the indiscriminate dumping of waste by vendors remains a serious issue,” said Suralkar. “CCTV cameras must be installed in areas prone to garbage dumping so violators can be identified and penalized.”

The commissioner emphasized the need for constant monitoring and stern action against those flouting sanitation norms. He also instructed officials to designate and enforce fixed trading zones for vendors, ensuring they do not spill over into unauthorized areas within or outside the market.

Pressure washing of highly unclean areas using 5 HP pressure jetting machines has been initiated. These will be deployed regularly to deep clean areas most affected by grime and waste accumulation.

The BBMP plans to float a new tender to reorganize parking within the premises and adjoining roads, ensuring streamlined entry and exit for both vehicles and vendors. New parking rates are to be finalized soon. More marshals may be deployed if necessary to curb unauthorized vending and maintain market order.

The commissioner’s visit is part of BBMP’s ongoing efforts to transform major public spaces in Bengaluru through better waste management, structured vending systems, and smart surveillance. The market traders, who have often been criticized for poor sanitation, are now under pressure to cooperate or face strict penalties.