Urban sanitation has gained prominence in modern Indian cities due to increasing population density and environmental concerns. Vijayawada’s achievement as the fourth cleanest city in India and winning the ‘Super Swachh League City‘ award in Swachh Survekshan 2024-25 exemplifies effective administration, policy implementation, and citizen engagement. Even amidst the 2024 floods, the city’s resilience and commitment to sustainability stood out.
Background of Swachh Survekshan and Urban Sanitation Drives
Swachh Survekshan is an annual cleanliness survey by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under the Swachh Bharat Mission. Vijayawada, located in Andhra Pradesh, has consistently excelled in sanitation metrics, aligning with national cleanliness and sustainable development objectives.
Significance of the Recognition
- Vijayawada ranks fourth in cities with over 10 lakh population.
- Recognition signifies strong infrastructure, governance, and public participation.
- Aligns with international sustainability goals like the Paris Agreement and Net Zero Emissions.
Objectives Behind Vijayawada’s Cleanliness Drive
- Establishing 100% door-to-door waste collection.
- Promoting waste segregation and community-led initiatives.
- Building resilience against disasters and promoting circular economy practices.
Key Features of Vijayawada’s Cleanliness Strategy
- Seven-Star Garbage Free Rating for solid waste management.
- Public Participation through citizen feedback and digital monitoring.
- Disaster Readiness demonstrated post the 2024 floods.
- Inter-Departmental Coordination for synchronized action.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams:
- Vijayawada’s cleanliness success showcases the impact of efficient governance and citizen involvement.
- Recognition in Swachh Survekshan highlights the city’s alignment with national and international sustainability goals.
- Objectives like waste segregation and circular economy practices are crucial for sustainable urban development.
- Features such as public participation and inter-departmental coordination are key to a successful cleanliness strategy.
