Clogged drains, flooded streets: Cottonpet pays the price for poor waste management

Sowmya Raj | NT

Bengaluru: Cottonpete Ward No. 120 in Bengaluru, is home to a growing population facing a myriad of challenges. With a population of 37,344, as per the latest census (as of August 24, 2023) conducted by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the residents are grappling with various issues that demand urgent attention and effective solutions.

Swachh Bharat irony

One of the pressing issues in Cottonpete Ward is irregular garbage collection, leading frustrated residents to resort to dropping off their waste on the roadside.

The irony is stark as piles of garbage accumulate beneath graffiti proclaiming "Swachh Bharat" (Clean India).

The surge in population over the past decade has exacerbated the problem, leaving residents and collectors struggling to cope.

A resident giving an example said, “Imagine if 10 years ago, there were only 10 residents and 5 garbage collectors in the area. Now, with a population of 100 people, the number of garbage collectors remains the same, posing a challenge for both residents and collectors.

He added, "The BBMP needs to deploy more garbage collectors to match the growing population."

Improper solid waste collection from households and properties contributes to clogged drains and Rajakaluves, especially in low-lying areas of Cottonpet.

This, in turn, leads to frequent flooding and waterlogging during the monsoon season.

Residents accuse that the improper solid waste collection from our households and properties has become a pressing concern. The consequence of this negligence is evident in the clogged drains and Rajakaluves, particularly in the low-lying areas of Cottonpet.

During the monsoon season, this mismanagement translates into frequent flooding and waterlogging, causing significant distress to us residents.

On-road parking and lack of streetlights

On-road parking exacerbates traffic congestion in an area where most roads are already narrow, forcing pedestrians to navigate through the chaos and risking their safety.

The lack of organised pedestrian parking compounds the problem, making it challenging for residents to walk along the roads without being in the midst of traffic.

In addition, Cottonpete is riddled with potholes, posing a threat to both pedestrians and motorists.

The inadequate number of street lights further exacerbates safety concerns, especially during the night, while stray cattle roaming the streets add to the chaos, creating hazards for residents and commuters alike.

Residents are also distressed by prolonged neglect of construction debris left unattended by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) or BBMP.

This persistent issue contributes to the environmental concerns of the locality, demanding prompt attention for a cleaner and safer living environment.

Ward No. 120 in Bengaluru is at a crossroads, facing a multitude of challenges that require immediate attention from civic authorities.

The growing population has brought to light the inadequacies in waste management, water drainage, traffic regulation.