‘Trash Back’ Campaign: Throwing Garbage On The Road Brings It Back To Your Doorstep

The authorities have taken a tough stand in Bengaluru due to the increasing black spots of garbage and the recurring problem of litter. The Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) and the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) jointly conducted a special campaign against about 190 houses. 

Those who were repeatedly throwing garbage on the road or in open spaces were dumped in front of their houses. Since fines alone did not work, the “You Dump It, You Own It” policy was implemented. 

Through this, an attempt is being made to restore the sense of responsibility of the citizens towards the growing waste problem in the city.

Background Of The Campaign

Bengaluru generates more than 5,000 tonnes of waste every day and new black spots are being created in different parts of the city. The earlier fines were between Rs 500 and Rs 2,000, but this did not deter habitual offenders. 

To solve the problem, the number of marshals and regular surveillance have been increased in 198 wards. Video recording is being done as evidence, and the waste collected from the black spots is being dumped directly in front of the houses of the culprits. The aim is to create direct accountability.

Effective Measures And Technology

BSWML says that now the fine has been fixed between Rs 2,000 and Rs 10,000 depending on the severity of the crime. Even the garbage dumped in front of the houses is cleaned up within a few hours so as not to cause additional suffering. 

The litterers are being identified based on CCTV footage and complaints sent by citizens. However, identification becomes difficult if the garbage is dumped at night or from a moving vehicle. Still, at least one habitual offender has been identified in each ward.

Public Reaction and Controversy

The reaction on social media is mixed. According to some, this strict measure will increase citizen awareness and make the city cleaner. Some say on social media that this is how civic sense can be created among citizens.

On the other hand, some feel that strict measures will not be able to provide a complete solution if the main problems of garbage disposal—such as irregular collection, missing vehicle routes, or not collecting at night—are not fixed.  Others have demanded that installing more cameras and technology-based tracking could be a permanent solution.

Many joke that throwing garbage indoors is more effective for real punishment! Some have also demanded collective awareness about civic order and cleanliness, not language debate.

Big Challenge In The Background

Bengaluru, once a clean and green tech hub, has now been ranked the fifth dirtiest city among the country’s major cities. Lack of regular waste management and population density have emerged as major challenges. Therefore, many see the “Trash Back” campaign as an urgent initiative to restore the city’s reputation.

Watch the video here.

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