UP Minister Demands Action to Restore Varanasi's Top Swachh Sarvekshan Ranking
Following intensive inspections conducted from Saturday night through Sunday afternoon across various city localities, Uttar Pradesh Urban Development Minister AK Sharma has issued a stern directive to the Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC). He emphasized the urgent need to execute plans and work effectively in the field rather than merely on paper to secure the top rank for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's parliamentary constituency of Kashi in the upcoming Swachh Sarvekshan, the national cleanliness survey.
Addressing Past Lapses and Collective Responsibility
During a direct interaction with corporators at the Circuit House on Sunday, Minister Sharma expressed disappointment over the city's recent performance. He noted that in the last survey, Varanasi slipped to the 17th position, primarily due to receiving only 63% marks in waste segregation at the source point. Sharma called for collective responsibility, urging everyone to make all necessary efforts to rectify these past lapses and improve the city's cleanliness standards.
Mobilizing Public Participation and Ensuring Worker Presence
To address these issues, corporators and officials have been instructed to actively engage with the public to mobilize them for proper waste management. This includes encouraging residents to keep wet and dry waste separate. Additionally, an appeal was made to visit schools and colleges to interact with principals, teachers, and children, aiming to involve the new generation in this crucial campaign.
Furthermore, civic body officials were advised not to rely solely on digital attendance systems. Instead, they must physically verify the presence of sanitation workers on site and personally contact those who are absent to understand the reasons behind their non-attendance, ensuring better accountability and efficiency.
Eliminating Garbage Vulnerable Points and Enhancing Infrastructure
Minister Sharma set clear targets for infrastructure improvements. He directed the complete elimination of all 250 garbage vulnerable points (GVPs) in the city before the onset of the monsoon season, followed by beautification efforts in those areas. Immediate removal of stones from roads or lanes was also ordered to enhance safety and aesthetics.
To prevent dust and disorganization, Sharma instructed officials to ensure interlocking on unpaved pavements across the city. Regarding electrical safety, corporators were told to promptly report any dangerous wires hanging with bamboo support via WhatsApp to the electricity department for swift action.
Progress Updates and Future Plans
Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal provided a presentation highlighting the progress made so far. He reported that 22 waste collection points have already been removed, with the remaining five scheduled for elimination within the next two to three months. Additionally, door-to-door garbage collection is set to commence smoothly in the new 25 wards that will be included in the municipal corporation by the time of Holi, further streamlining waste management efforts.
These comprehensive measures underscore the government's commitment to restoring Varanasi's reputation as a clean and well-maintained city, aligning with the broader goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission and ensuring a healthier environment for all residents.
