A dramatic showdown unfolded outside Bengaluru as protesters blocked more than 300 garbage trucks bound for Doddaballapur, sparking a standoff over waste dumping rights. The disruption in Doda Mankala came amid heightened local resistance to the city’s expanding trash crisis.
Originally destined for Mahadevapura, the trucks were diverted by GBA following earlier demonstrations. Public anger peaked after a child’s death in a road mishap linked to the operations, prompting immediate action from residents and BJP leaders.
Under MLA Dhiraj Muniraju’s guidance, the group held firm. ‘Our area can’t bear more waste centers,’ he asserted to media. ‘Trucks without valid papers are out. We’re forcing returns.’ Transport officials intervened, fining violators on the spot.
Outrage extended to Mittaganahalli and Bellahalli facilities, where communities allege haphazard disposal methods and insufficient panchayat support. GBA CEO Kari Gowda faces blame for ordering the additional 300 vehicles into the zone.
As Bengaluru grapples with rapid urbanization and waste overload, this episode calls for innovative solutions like advanced recycling and equitable site selection. Negotiations are underway, aiming to balance city needs with rural preservation.