Ahmedabad’s determination to boost its cleanliness ranking under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has intensified as the city tackles the issue of public spitting. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), aiming to improve its national ranking from the current 10th position, has launched a stricter anti-spitting campaign, targeting individuals who litter public roads and spaces. Surveillance measures include body-worn cameras on patrol teams and CCTV networks across all seven municipal zones, a move designed to replicate their earlier success in curbing stray cattle on the streets. This focus on enforcing fines and public accountability underscores Ahmedabad’s mission to keep up with cities like Indore and Surat, which lead the nation in cleanliness.
A detailed analysis of AMC’s data reveals that the South Zone of Ahmedabad is the city’s primary spitting hotspot. Between February and October 2024, this zone recorded 5,219 offenders, resulting in fines totaling Rs 5,00,450. North-South Zone followed closely with 2,703 fines amounting to Rs 3,16,650, while the North Zone saw 2,299 violators fined Rs 2,33,600. In total, AMC fined 18,070 offenders citywide, collecting Rs 19,10,010. However, officials acknowledge that many offenders go unnoticed. To tackle this, AMC has deployed surveillance specifically near paan shops, aiming to curb the widespread spitting habit linked to paan masala consumption.
This anti-spitting initiative reflects broader urban challenges in maintaining public hygiene, especially as cities grapple with rapid population growth and infrastructural expansion. Although Ahmedabad has seen impressive infrastructural developments, officials recognise that cleanliness remains an issue for civic reputation. Dr Mistry, AMC’s Director of Solid Waste Management, emphasised the commitment to the city’s standards, stating that the campaign aims to instil a sense of responsibility among citizens for a cleaner, healthier city environment.
From a sustainability perspective, Ahmedabad’s anti-spitting drive promotes a healthier public space while reducing waste management burdens. By focusing on hygiene and minimising spitting-related litter, AMC aligns with sustainable urban goals to enhance the quality of life and reduce environmental waste. As the city faces rapid growth, the importance of maintaining sustainable sanitation practices is crucial for long-term urban health, reflecting a commitment to creating cleaner public spaces that serve the community’s needs and support the city’s development trajectory.
