With the garbage menace still haunting the citizens, it seems like the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) can learn a lesson or two on waste management from the residents of Yelahanka New Town. The residents here dispose of garbage in a scientific way and this has helped in keeping the area green and clean.
Founder of Citizen Forum in Yelahanka New Town A Padmanabha says that 40 tonnes of garbage generated here every month is being converted into manure.
“We started garbage management and an afforestation programme in 2008. We use the manure for the 43,000 trees in the area. Garbage management has never been a problem,” he said.
Today, they have a ‘mini forest’ in the area. Also, they have initiated night patrolling to keep a watch on woodcutters.
Padmanabha recalls how potential land buyers used to hesitate to buy plots in the area, as it had thick greenery. However, after the Bangalore International Airport started its operations, the demand shot up. The residents then decided to keep the area green and clean. “Demand for properties in this area has shot up,” he added.
'Aim to be a total green zone'
Speaking about trees present in the area, Padmanabha says, “Neem, honge, guava and mango among others are some of the trees which can be seen here. By 2015, we will grow closer towards making our area a total green zone.”
He added, “There were incidents of tree cutting. To prevent more such incidents, 850 members of the forum started night patrolling on rotation basis. With this even the crime cases dropped. We found a solution to manage waste a few years ago. In collaboration with a private firm, and help from a scientist at IISc, we have been able to keep the area clean.”
Focus on lake rejuvenation
Meanwhile, Yelahanka MLA S R Vishwanath has assured support to the local associations which help in community building.
“Now, the focus will be on lake rejuvenation and Rs 19.5 crore has been sanctioned for this purpose. The desilting work in Yelahanka Lake will be completed soon,” he said.