Deccan Herald 21.08.2012
Garbage disposal halted at Terra Firma landfill
G Manjusainath, BANGALORe,
The Bruhat
Bangalore Mahanagara Palike’s garbage problems have mounted with the closure of
another landfill following a protest by local farmers.
The unrest at the landfill began five days ago when irate farmers on
Doddaballapur Road, taking cue from Mavallipura residents, launched a stir
against the dumping of trash at a landfill managed by Terra Firma
Biotechnologies.
Many expressed fears that they would face similar health hazards as suffered by
Mavallipura residents. The closure of the landfill has badly affected the
collection of garbage in the City.
Mounting anger
Sources said that the stir is a result of increasing anger over the unhygienic
conditions at the landfill, which had been exacerbated by a pungent reek put
out by the dumping ground. Since the closure of Mavallipura landfill, the
Palike had diverted nearly 800 tonnes of garbage to the Terra Firma landfill.
Because of protests, however, it had reduced the load to 300 tonnes. To
reassure farmers, the Palike has promised to take steps to prevent villages
from being polluted. However, few protesters have paid heed to the promise.
The agitation intensified three days ago when local farmers reportedly blocked
the road, compelling truck drivers to return to the City with their loads of
garbage. Much of the trash generated in the City is now being sent to Mandur
near Hoskote and to another dump near Rajarajeshwari Nagar.
The Palike has expressed fears that there will be a large pile-up of garbage on
Tuesday — in the aftermath of Ramzan —the disposal of which, could pose a major
challenge. In addition, with several festivals due in September, starting with
the Ganesha festival, the Palike fears an increase in garbage loads in the
City.
Palike Commissioner M K Shankarlinge Gowda said that the BBMP will not be able
to dispose of garbage if the protest continues. He said the protests may force
the Palike to seek the assistance of police.
When asked about eco-friendly methods to dispose of waste, he said that, “Many
proposals regarding the scientific disposal of garbage such as waste to energy
are waiting for clearance from the Finance department and their commissioning
will take at least 20 to 24 months.”
Mayor D Venkatesh Murthy said that there were some issues related to garbage
disposal in Terra Firma and he had asked officers to obtain details.
