In proposed Integrated solid waste management system, four firms to handle end-to-end waste management in Bengaluru, developing waste processing parks

The State government has proposed a paradigm shift in the integrated solid waste management system (ISWMS) in the city, where collection, transportation, and processing of waste will be given to only four firms, who will also set up integrated SWM parks.

The State government has proposed a paradigm shift in the integrated solid waste management system (ISWMS) in the city, where collection, transportation, and processing of waste will be given to only four firms, who will also set up integrated SWM parks.

This proposal has already drawn the ire of many. While the Opposition has alleged “corruption” in the proposed new set up, the contractors, who are waiting for new tenders to be awarded for years now, have said they would take up a legal fight against the proposed new system. 

However, sources in the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) said no decision was taken on the proposal yet and the State Cabinet is yet to discuss the same. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is chairing a meeting on BBMP matters on Wednesday, where the issue is likely to come up.

Championed by Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar, ISWMS was announced in the 2024-25 State Budget as four mega waste processing parks in four corners of the city on 100-acre land parcels.

The government has now identified these land parcels in Mandur; the existing Terra Firma waste processing unit near Gundlahalli, Doddaballapur; near Bidadi, and Gollahalli along NICE Road. 

A report on the proposed ISWMS, prepared by a consultant, indicates that the State government and the BBMP will acquire these land parcels and help companies create waste processing infrastructure in them, sources said.

The companies that bag the tender will have the contract for 30 years and will be authorised to collect user fee from individual houses every month, sources said.