Bengaluru Solid Waste Management (BSWML) is considering an overhaul of the city’s bulk waste management system by taking over collection of waste from bulk waste generators and subsequently handing it over to empanelled vendors for processing.The proposal, which is still at a conceptual stage, comes amid complaints from apartment associations and other bulk waste generators over limited vendor choice and pricing issues under the present system.Currently, BSWML has empanelled four vendors for bulk waste collection and processing: Sustainable Impacts, MSGP Infratech, Mukka Proteins and Swaccha Eco Solutions. Bulk waste generators have been directed to tie up with these authorised vendors, a move aimed at eliminating unauthorised waste collectors from the system.However, apartment associations and other bulk generators have repeatedly argued that the arrangement has created a monopoly-like situation. They have sought empanelment of more vendors for greater flexibility.The concerns are on pricing. While Karnataka govt has capped wet waste collection charges at Rs 12 per kg, negotiations on the final rates and service charges have largely been left to the vendors and bulk waste generators.The issue was recently discussed during a public consultation, where Bengaluru development minister Krishna Byre Gowda assured stakeholders that a solution will be worked out.Karee Gowda, CEO of BSWML, confirmed to TOI the agency is exploring a model in which it would directly oversee collection. “We are planning to collect the bulk waste through BSWML and then give it to the empanelled vendor for processing at their facilities. We will intervene in the collection process and ensure the garbage is collected properly,” he said.However, Gowda clarified the proposal is still under consideration. The model is expected to be taken up only after the current tender period ends.Apartment associations have welcomed the proposal. “If the government collects bulk waste and routes it to processing vendors, residents stand to benefit. The 18% GST burden can be avoided, rates can be standardised, and there will be better oversight of vendors. A govt-managed system can bring greater transparency and accountability,” said Satish Mallya of the Bengaluru Apartment Federation.Mallya said apartment communities have long maintained that a civic-body-led collection mechanism would help address disputes over rates.Stakeholders believe the arrangement could give BSWML greater control over service quality and compliance. While the proposal remains in the planning stage, it signals that BSWML is looking at a larger role in waste collection amid growing demands for reforms in bulk waste management framework.
