As heaps of garbage keep increasing in the City, the corresponding health hazards keep on growing. With the monsoon bringing in a hostof diseases, this solid waste is adding to the growing number of infections and viruses.
Metrolife talks to Bangaloreans and experts about the ill-effects of solid waste. Manas, a solid waste management expert who works with an NGO, says that as the garbage sits and breaks down, harmful chemicals leak into the ground and aquifers which supply water to the area. Older residue also release carcinogens which are known to cause cancer.
"Air pollutants can create acid rain or cause respiratory problems. Of course, where there is decay and garbage, there are rodents. Landfills and garbage piles are hot-
beds for rats, flies and vermin carrying various diseases which often take an ugly turn," he adds.
Though many residents are aware of the dangerous turn solid waste can take, they say that they don't have a choice but to dispose of waste in open areas.
"There have been times when garbage has been lying around for days together and the BBMP vehicles have not come to pick it up. We don't have a choice but to wait for them. But, we know that solid waste has a lot of ill-effects and monsoon is the time when the bacteria and virus breed," adds Chiranjiv, a resident of Indiranagar.
Manas adds that it is important to learn the basics of recycling so that the waste that is dumped in landfills can be disposed of properly.
"Plastic, metal, paper and certain types of glass can all be recycled at local recycling centres. If you take the time to send these items to recyclable locations, the items can be reused and returned to consumers. They won't end up as trash which harm the environment. If recyclables are placed into the ground, they can potentially contaminate the surrounding soil," he explains.
"Monsoon is the season when most diseases are prevalent and there are many areas in the City where people dispose of waste arbitrarily. It is important for us youngsters to educate people and spread awareness regarding the risk that we are taking when we don't follow rules," notes Tiyasha, a student.
Solid waste such as plastic contains carcinogenic materials which can cause irreparable damage to the many functions of the body.
Experts say that as plastic water bottles break down, they can release DEHA, a type of carcinogen that can cause reproductive problems, liver issues and weight loss. "These chemicals can reach into the soil and cause contamination that can impact plant and animal life as well as water sources.
Newspapers or paper that contain ink can be toxic to the soil as well. If the garbage is dumped or not contained properly in a landfill, it will contaminate
the surrounding ground," says Praveen Nair, an expert in waste management.