Toxic garbage burning near Turahalli Forest sparks health fears in Thalaghattapura
In Thalaghattapura, near Sharavathi Oak and the edge of Turahalli Forest, recurring illegal dumping and open burning of mixed toxic waste in broad daylight are causing severe air pollution and rising health concerns among local residents. The situation has worsened over the last two years as civic efforts to curb the practice have lapsed.
Residents report that thick fumes regularly rise from garbage piles that continue to accumulate despite past clean-up drives. Sneha Mandappa, a resident living near the burning site in Sharavathi Oak, noted that the spot was covered in greenery until construction began two years ago, exposing blind spots where waste is now burned without monitoring. She cautioned that the proximity of residential layouts to the forest leaves the area vulnerable to forest fires.
Construction worker Manish Kumar said the intense smoke from mixed garbage makes breathing difficult and seeps into the lungs. Parinedhi, a resident of Adarsha Layout, added that smoke entering homes causes her family to wheeze due to the burning of plastic materials. She noted that while authorities previously cleared waste, set up signboards, and planted saplings, those maintenance efforts eventually ceased.
The toxic smoke has affected commuters and workers in the vicinity as well. Autorickshaw driver Manju Kiran reported experiencing lung discomfort and coughing while passing through the patch. Health experts warn that burning plastic-laden mixed waste releases hazardous chemicals including carbon monoxide, furans, and dioxins, aggravating respiratory illnesses like asthma and bronchitis.
According to data from Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML), the city logged 1,220 garbage-burning complaints on the SWM Sahaaya App between August 2025 and January 2026. In February alone, 242 complaints were submitted, with 158 resolved. Under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, open burning of solid waste is strictly prohibited, subjecting violators, property owners, and contractors to fines and potential legal action.
Residents noted similar waste-burning hotspots in nearby areas including Vajarahalli, Doddakallasandra, Konanakunte, and around Silk Institute. Environment enthusiasts and bird watchers reported that dumping has spilled into parts of Turahalli Forest Tree Park. Forest department officials stated they coordinate with the Fire Department during major blazes and urged citizens to refrain from dumping waste near forest land.
