The Karnataka government has approved a user fee for all domestic waste generators in Bengaluru, which is expected to lead to a rise in property taxes in the city. The Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Ltd (BSWML), which proposed the user fee in November last year, has yet to issue an official order. However, the Urban Development Department, under Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, has approved the collection of the fee.
The fee is based on the built-up area of a property and is divided into six slabs.
Owners of buildings up to 600 sq ft will have to pay ₹10 per month (₹120 annually), while those with properties larger than 4,000 sq ft will be charged ₹400 per month (₹4,800 per year).
The BSWML estimates that the user fee could generate around ₹600 crore annually.
The actual revenue could potentially exceed this figure. The government has also permitted BSWML to charge bulk waste generators—such as apartment complexes and large commercial establishments—₹12 per kg if they lack an empaneled waste processing agency or an in-situ waste management system.
Despite the introduction of the new user fee, the existing Solid Waste Management (SWM) Cess will remain unchanged.
This cess, collected as part of property tax, is allocated for maintaining public spaces, including street sweeping and cleanliness efforts.
The new user fee is expected to increase the overall property tax burden.
The BSWML has yet to issue an official order specifying the exact implementation date. The fee is expected to take effect from April 1, coinciding with the new financial year. However, opposition from citizens and possible legal challenges could delay its enforcement.
The new user fee is justified on the grounds that BSWML provides waste collection and disposal services.
However, concerns remain over the effectiveness of its waste management practices. The decision follows a recent fare hike of 45-50 per cent by Namma Metro.
The fee is expected to spark opposition from citizens already grappling with rising expenses.
The decision follows a recent fare hike of 45-50 per cent by Namma Metro.
For many homeowners, property tax is already a significant expense.
The additional levy may increase overall costs substantially.
The city’s waste collection system lacks efficiency and accountability.
Concerns have been raised about how authorities will manage the new user fee. Critics say the city’s waste collection system lacks efficiency and accountability, raising concerns about how authorities will manage the new user fee.
This additional charge, linked to property tax, is expected to spark opposition from citizens already grappling with rising expenses.
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