Vacant plot cleaning drive begins in Bengaluru; no fine for first-time offenders
The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has launched a citywide cleaning drive targeting neglected vacant plots in Bengaluru. Minister Krishna Byre Gowda announced the initiative, which allows first-time offenders to clean their plots without facing fines. However, repeat offenders will face strict penalties. The "Freedom from Waste" campaign gave plot owners until August 15 to clear their properties, with the deadline later extended to August 22.
Approximately 30% of owners completed the cleanup, while 70% have yet to act. The remaining vacant plots will be cleaned by the civic body, with costs recovered through property taxes. Identifying 1,616 critical locations with 22,732 tonnes of debris, Gowda emphasized the importance of cleaning vacant plots to prevent the proliferation of disease-carrying pests.
The GBA will charge only prescribed rates for cleanup, with additional fees for removed gates or barriers and debris transportation. The action aligns with a Solid Waste Management by-law and provisions of the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024, empowering city corporations to enforce cleanups on private premises.
Written by urgent.news from The Indian Express's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
