April 14, 2026
According to the complainants, thick smoke and toxic fumes from burning garbage spread across nearby residential areas, making evenings particularly distressing.
Residents living in and around Karanji lake and its adjoining nature park have raised serious concerns over recurring incidents of garbage burning on or near the premises, citing severe public health and environmental risks.
In a representation submitted on April 9 to the Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK), which manages Karanji lake under the Mysuru zoo, the Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP), on behalf of residents, stated that waste burning has been routinely observed between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., occurring either daily or at frequent intervals over the past several months.
According to the complainants, thick smoke and toxic fumes from burning garbage spread across nearby residential areas, making evenings particularly distressing. Residents reported health issues such as breathing difficulties, irritation of the eyes and throat, and an inability to keep windows open or use outdoor spaces. They emphasised that children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable.
Apart from health concerns, residents also flagged environmental implications, noting that such practices are incompatible with the ecological and conservation objectives of a protected nature park like Karanji. They pointed out that open burning of waste violates the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.
The residents have urged authorities to identify those responsible, take immediate steps to stop the practice, ensure scientific waste disposal, and establish monitoring mechanisms to prevent recurrence. They have also sought a written response detailing the action taken.
In the letter, residents said that they would approach agencies such as the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board and the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) if the issue is not addressed promptly.
Meanwhile, the MGP has once again sought the intervention of senior officials, citing non-compliance despite earlier action.
The issue was initially raised by a resident, following which MCC Assistant Executive Engineer Mruthyunjaya issued a warning and imposed a fine of ₹1,000. However, residents allege that the violations have persisted. Expressing concern over the lack of compliance, MGP said the matter had been brought to the notice of zoo authorities, but no corrective action has been taken so far.
In a letter dated April 11 to Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy, MGP founding–working president Bhamy V. Shenoy expressed disappointment over the inaction, stating that the issue, which appeared to have been resolved earlier, has resurfaced. Calling for urgent intervention, MGP said only decisive action at a higher level can put an end to the ongoing violations and set a precedent.