CM seeks help from MLAs to bust Bengaluru ‘garbage mafia’, BJP leader skips meeting

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar held an all-party meeting at his official residence, Krishna, to discuss garbage management and development projects in the city. The meeting was not attended by Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok, who objected to irregularities in the waste management tenders. | Photo credit: File Photo

Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday sought the cooperation of Bengaluru MLAs and MLCs to break what he called the “garbage mafia” in the city, even as the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) re-issues tenders for 16 of the 21 waste management packages.

Mr. Shivakumar held an all-party meeting at his official residence, Krishna, to discuss garbage management and development projects in the city. However, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok, who had recently alleged irregularities in waste management tenders, did not attend the meeting.

Mr. Ashok accused the government of favoring an ineligible company and demanded a high-level inquiry into the matter. He said one of the ₹133 crore tenders floated by GBA was awarded to a private company even though the firm did not meet the eligibility criteria.

Meanwhile, the recent cancellation of tenders was discussed at Tuesday’s meeting. Mr. Shivakumar briefed about BSWML’s plan to restructure waste management by awarding 33 contracts for waste collection in 27 assembly constituencies. The aim of the move is to increase the city’s waste collection capacity and ensure smooth transportation, he said.

The new tenders would ensure the collection of up to 9,000 tons of waste. GPS tracking would be mandatory for all waste collection vehicles and only new vehicles would be allowed under the contracts, he said. According to BSWML officials, only five contractors accepted the waste management tender.

Karee Gowda, Managing Director, BSWML, told The Hindu that the rest are demanding nearly 30% premium over the actual contract value. Cabinet approved 14%, which was a discussion that took place during a meeting with stakeholders.

“The contracts are worth ₹584 crore per annum, which the contractors want to increase by another ₹180 crore. Hence, many have refused to accept the letter of acceptance,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (Esma) for waste management. Mr Shivakumar sought opposition support “for the good of the city”.

10 year plan

Mr. Shivakumar reportedly said that they were working on reorienting the North-South Tunnel, which had become a point of contention as citizens raised concerns about the possible impact on Lalbagh.

Meanwhile, he said the government was working on a 10-year development plan for the city estimated to cost around ₹1 lakh crore to celebrate 500 years of the city in 2037.

Published – 27 Oct 2026 22:14 IST