Residents and commuters in Hubballi are raising serious concerns over the blatant violation of garbage transportation rules by vehicles of the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC). Despite clear regulations, these vehicles are frequently seen operating unsafely, creating a nuisance and potential danger on the city's roads.
Open Defiance of Transport Norms
Official HDMC rules explicitly ban the use of open vehicles for transporting municipal waste. However, this ban appears to exist only on paper. Numerous tractors and trucks continue to operate with uncovered trailers, leading to waste and dirty wastewater spilling onto the roads. Adding to the problem, many garbage vehicles are spotted with gunny bags precariously hanging on both sides, stuffed with plastic bags, cartons, and other refuse.
Entrepreneur PM Veeresh Sharma from the Gamanagatti Industrial Estate confirmed the ongoing issue, stating that several vehicles still transport garbage in open trailers, spilling wastewater publicly. The situation poses a direct threat to road safety, especially for two-wheeler riders.
Public Outcry and Official Inaction
Mayur Patil, a private employee, highlighted the immediate danger. He pointed out that the hanging bags often brush against passing vehicles, creating a serious risk. He also complained that many of these vehicles operate without number plates, and traffic police, who are strict with other violators, seem to ignore these blatant infractions.
A traffic policeman stationed at Hosur Circle admitted the dilemma. He stated that while these vehicles are involved in essential city cleanliness work, they often take advantage of the leniency shown to them. "When we act against other violators, commuters question why HDMC vehicles without number plates are ignored," he revealed, acknowledging the public's valid complaints.
Allegations of Waste Mismanagement
Beyond traffic violations, questions are also being raised about waste handling protocols. Social worker Lingaraj Dharwad Shettar noted that while waste segregation is not fully implemented in the city, pourakarmikas (sanitation workers) are often seen consistently separating cartons, plastic items, and liquor bottles. "Considering the quantity, it raises suspicion that these materials are being sold to traders. This happens openly, yet neither HDMC nor traffic officials take action," he alleged.
When contacted for a response, Santoshkumar Yarangali, Executive Engineer for Solid Waste Management (SWM) at HDMC, said he would look into the matter. Meanwhile, DCP (Crime and Traffic) CR Raveesha gave a firmer assurance. He clarified that no vehicle, government or private, is exempt from traffic rules. "We will discuss this with HDMC officials. If violations continue, fines will certainly be imposed," he stated.
The ongoing situation underscores a significant gap between policy and enforcement by the municipal corporation, leaving citizens to deal with the daily hazards and unsightly mess on Hubballi's roads.
