BBMP introduces the choice of batch waste in the property tax payment system

The BBMP classification of bulk generators includes residential complexes with 100 or more residential units, with a feature of over 5,000 square feet in size and a feature of producing 100 kilograms or more waste per day. |Picture source: File Photo

A move designed to bring greater responsibility to bulk waste management, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has introduced a statement option in its property tax payment system. This was introduced by the BBMP’s tax office about a week ago.

The new measure will require certain property owners to self-identify as bulk waste generators, allowing civic agencies to simplify waste disposal liability across the city and exempt user fees from such owners.

Senior BBMP officials confirmed that the tax payment portal has a drop-down option where property owners can declare whether they fall under the category of bulk waste generators. Classification includes residential complexes with 100 or more living units, with features of over 5,000 square feet in size and characteristics of producing 100 kilograms or more waste per day. The property owner will need to select the applicable category to complete the statement. Those who comply with this statement will be exempt from user fees that will come into effect on April 1.

According to the BBMP, the purpose of the program is to push bulk generators toward waste disposal and give them a greater understanding of the complexities involved in managing large amounts of waste. For civic agencies, disposing of bulk waste has become an increasingly serious challenge, increasing the burden of managing conventional household waste. The bulk waste generators announced are requested to either dispose of waste in their homes or hand over it to a private waste processor.

However, civic agencies do not leave room for abuse. To prevent false claims, Bangalore Solid Waste Management Ltd. (BSWML) will conduct a physical examination. These inspections will be conducted based on data provided by the BBMP Revenue Department, which tracks and lists properties that may fall into the bulk waste category. The inspector will verify the waste disposal method and whether the waste was handed over to an additional processor or a conventional waste collector under a contract with the BBMP, which violates the specification. Any discrepancy found during the inspection will result in penalties.

Those who neither deal with the waste itself nor work with the deputy agency must hand over it to the BBMP at a disposal fee of Rs 12 per kilogram, which is the cost of the civic groups hoping that it will prevent violations and encourage decentralized waste management.