Illegal dumping spreads to city outskirts, authorities silent

Hubballi

The illegal dumping of waste along Kusugal Road on the Hubli-Solapur National Highway is rapidly turning the area into a massive eyesore. Despite being a major route for interstate traffic, the waste pile continues to grow unchecked, with no effective response from the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC).

According to locals, even municipal garbage trucks have been seen dumping waste in the area, alongside debris from construction sites. The garbage, including rotten fruits, clothes, plastic, and other wet waste, often catches fire, filling the air with thick smoke. Residents claim HDMC staff have illegally turned this stretch into a dumping ground, ruining the city’s appearance.

A similar scene is unfolding on Hubli-Ballari Road near the Gadag Road railway overbridge, where both dry and wet waste—along with construction materials—are dumped in large quantities. Despite complaints, no cleanup or penalties have been implemented so far.

Durga Colony resident Hanumath Talawar said, “Large quantities of garbage are collected on Solapur Road. Not just construction waste, we doubt that the corporation is also dumping garbage. There is always a fire in the pile. The corporation should take action and impose fines.”

Responding to concerns, HDMC Executive Engineer Santosh Yarangalli stated, “Some individuals are regularly dumping waste. After clearing, regular monitoring and patrolling will be done. If anyone is found dumping in the area, strict action and fines will be imposed.” He assured the public that the waste would be cleared soon.