Sir,

Thank you STAR for covering the fires and waste-burning issue in Jayalakshmipuram in Star of Mysore dated Oct. 7.

The report titled Smokepuram! rightly highlighted the seriousness of the situation. What happened on Oct. 4 (where garbage mounds were set on fire at multiple places) was primarily a containment effort — a necessary first step, but far from a solution.

The real challenge lies in developing a long-term, coordinated plan that involves the local authorities and our MLA — but equally, it requires the active cooperation of residents.

For too long, there has been apathy among local residents toward this toxic and carcinogenic situation. We need to move forward in a mature, collective way, without resorting to blame. Also, we, the residents, must work in collaboration with the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) to help our area be litter and smoke-free.

It is also not fair to blame the vegetable vendors — many residents, builders and outsiders have been dumping waste, debris and even industrial material in this area, creating a hazardous cocktail that fuels these fires.

A combination of measures — stricter patrolling, installation of CCTV cameras, clear signage, a massive clean-up, plantation, and perhaps even converting the stretch along the Nala into a green park — must be considered. We welcome other suggestions from readers and the authorities.

Another critical issue is that the area has become unsafe for women, with young men loitering, vaping and passing unsavoury remarks.

Only when there is a critical mass of citizen participation, backed by administrative resolve, can Jayalakshmipuram truly breathe clean again.

— Sunita Rao

Jayalakshmipuram

8.10.2025