BBMP swiftly deployed workers to clear the garbage, ensuring minimal environmental impact
Bengaluru’s first-ever Cauvery Aarti at Sankey Tank, organized by the Karnataka government on March 21, turned into an environmental concern as the large-scale event generated nearly five tonnes of waste.
Waste Management Efforts
According to a report by The Hindu, the event, which aimed to be a cultural and religious tribute to the sacred river, left behind heaps of plastic bottles, floral decorations, food wrappers, banners, and other discarded materials.
However, swift action by pourakarmikas (sanitation workers) and waste collectors ensured that the litter was efficiently cleared. Officials from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) stated that four auto tippers were deployed immediately after the event to collect the waste, followed by a compactor to transport it to the landfill in Kannur.
The cleanup operation began late on March 21 and continued into the early hours of March 22. Civic workers worked tirelessly for over four hours, ensuring that the area was restored to its original state by 3:30 am.
A Grand Celebration
The event was spearheaded by BBMP and featured a variety of cultural and religious elements, including a grand procession, puja, lighting displays, a laser show, and a live orchestra. Priests from Varanasi were specially flown in to perform the rituals.
Over 10,000 attendees, including families of BWSSB (Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board) employees, gathered at Sankey Tank for the religious ceremony. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, along with several other ministers, participated in the event, offering prayers to the Cauvery River.
Government’s Water Conservation Initiative
On March 22, coinciding with World Water Day, the Karnataka government launched a month-long water conservation campaign alongside the Cauvery Aarti. The initiative aims to raise awareness about responsible water usage amid rising concerns over water shortages in the state.
While the event successfully brought together thousands for a spiritual and cultural celebration, the massive waste left behind highlights the need for better waste management strategies at large public gatherings.
Sources By Agencies
