Attacks on sweeping machines: garbage mafia, eateries suspected

Bengaluru: BBMP’s sweeping machines came under attack on three separate incidents last week. The reported incidents took place at Banaswadi, White Field and Hebbal flyover. Solid waste management officials suspect the garbage contractor mafia as they believe mechanical sweepers are cutting into contracts of night sweeping. BBMP’s special commissioner

 D. Randeep said,“ I heard street food vendors objecting to mechanical sweepers due to the dust falling on their wares”. BBMP has a fleet of nine sweeping machines and 17 more machines are likely to be purchased in the foreseen future.

Binay Kumar, 25, was injured on December 14 when sweeping was underway beneath the flyover in Banaswadi. Stones and boulders were thrown at the machine and crew. BBMP deployed security personnel to deal with the situation. BBMP yet to file a police complaint.

BBMP has turned to ex-servicemen who are being deployed on both sides of the road when the machines are at work on ORR stretches.