Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched an investigation after a video surfaced on Saturday allegedly showing over 20 garbage heaps on fire in Ward 75 of Zone 17. The footage has sparked controversy amid the civic body’s ongoing cleanliness drive
The video shows multiple garbage piles burning in an open field, reportedly in the Lal Quarter area behind the Housing Board, raising concerns of deliberate sabotage.
The BMC is currently conducting a special cleanliness campaign from May 21 to 30. The viral video has cast doubts over the drive, with allegations that the garbage collected during the campaign may have been deliberately set on fire by municipal staff.
“Video’s authenticity being verified”
Although AHO Ramratan Lohiya, in charge of Zone 17, claimed the video is old, Municipal Commissioner Harendra Narayan has ordered a probe. CCTV footage from the area is being reviewed to verify the video’s authenticity and identify those responsible. “We are checking CCTV cameras installed nearby to determine the truth. Strict action will be taken based on the findings,” said Narayan.
Rs 10K fine on Sagar Pearl Colony for dumping garbage in drain
The Bhopal Municipal Corporation on Sunday imposed a spot fine of Rs 10,000 on Sagar Pearl Colony in Ward No. 53 for blocking the Jatkhedi drain by dumping garbage. Despite repeated warnings, the colony’s staff continued to dispose of waste in the drain. On the direction of BMC commissioner Harendra Narayan, the health department has intensified drain-cleaning efforts ahead of the monsoon.
Although the Jatkhedi drain was recently cleaned, the inspection revealed fresh violations. The civic body has warned the colony of stricter penalties for any future violation.