The Walled City of Jaipur, one of the busiest tourist areas, is once again grappling with overflowing garbage just days after the Jaipur Municipal Corporation (JMC) concluded its 'Operation Clean Sweep' campaign. Residents report that narrow lanes and open dumping spots cleaned during the drive have reverted to their earlier condition, casting doubt on the sustainability of the exercise.
Campaign Promises vs. Reality
JMC launched the one-day campaign with claims that long-neglected 'Gandi Galiya', narrow stretches, and open garbage points inside the old city would be cleared permanently. However, within five days, areas such as Kuteto Ka Rasta, Mishra Raja Ji Ka Rasta, and Mehro Ka Rasta are again witnessing piles of waste and foul odors. Open garbage dumping was observed near Namak Ki Mandi and Baba Harishchandra Marg, close to Raisar Plaza.
Residents' Concerns
Yogesh Labaniya, a resident of Namak Ki Mandi, expressed skepticism: 'We thought at least things would improve for a few days, but if garbage hoppers do not arrive on time, the lanes will obviously go back to the same condition.' Irregular garbage collection and delayed arrival of waste vehicles have worsened the situation.
Former councillor Arvind Methi termed the campaign a 'PR event' and emphasized that cleanliness in the Walled City could only improve through regular sanitation work and timely deployment of hoppers.
Neglected Areas and Staff Shortages
In Ramganj and Mehro Ka Rasta, residents complained that their areas were not included in the campaign, even though sanitation workers from those localities were diverted for the drive. Former councillor Mohammad Zakariya noted that the city already faces a shortage of sanitation staff, and shifting workers from one area to another only worsens conditions elsewhere.
Financial Investments Questioned
Adding to residents' concerns, over Rs 9 crore has reportedly been spent in phases under the Jaipur Smart City projects to clean these 'Gandi Galiya'. The recent 'Operation Clean Sweep' drive was also conducted under CSR funding at a cost of nearly Rs 10 lakh. Despite these expenditures, ground reality remains unchanged, with garbage, foul smell, and open dumping continuing to dominate the historic lanes.
