In a sweeping initiative aimed at significantly enhancing urban sanitation and public hygiene, over 3,500 kilometres of roads across the national capital have been thoroughly cleaned as part of a mega cleanliness campaign spanning all 12 zones of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, in a statement released on Friday, highlighted the extensive efforts, which also include the issuance of over 11,000 challans for violations and the removal of an estimated 19,892 metric tonnes of silt from the city’s extensive drain network. This concerted effort underscores Delhi’s commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more liveable urban environment, particularly in preparation for the upcoming monsoon season. The ongoing drive transcends a mere one-time clean-up operation; its overarching goal is the establishment of a robust and regular system that ensures every street, neighbourhood, and market within Delhi remains consistently clean, organised, and pollution-free. This long-term vision is critical for sustainable urban development, fostering an environment that supports public health and well-being. According to city officials, the Rohini zone has recorded the highest level of cleaning activity, demonstrating exemplary commitment, followed closely by the Najafgarh, Karol Bagh, and South zones. A central component of this intensive effort has been the large-scale desilting of MCD drains, crucial for preventing waterlogging and ensuring efficient urban drainage during heavy rainfall.
Chief Minister Gupta further elaborated on the inter-agency coordination that is making this campaign effective. She specifically highlighted the pivotal role of the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, which, as of May 21, had successfully cleared an impressive 13.72 lakh metric tonnes of silt from 27 major drains across the city. The department has been issued clear instructions to complete all remaining desilting work by May 31, underscoring the urgency and strategic importance of preparing Delhi’s drainage system ahead of the monsoon downpours. Efficient drainage is paramount for mitigating urban flooding, which can severely disrupt daily life and pose significant health risks. Beyond cleanliness, the comprehensive campaign also addresses critical aspects of urban safety and aesthetics. Chief Minister Gupta reviewed the city’s progress in tackling poorly lit and unsafe areas, which often contribute to perceived insecurity. To effectively eliminate these “dark spots,” a significant undertaking saw the repair of 4,140 streetlights and the installation of 285 new ones. This targeted lighting improvement, especially in areas previously devoid of adequate lighting infrastructure, directly contributes to enhancing public safety and security for residents, particularly women and vulnerable populations, during evening hours.
In a parallel initiative aimed at improving the city’s urban aesthetics and reducing visual clutter, authorities have taken decisive action against illegal advertising. A substantial 37,628 illegal posters and 8,399 banners have been systematically removed from public walls, utility poles, and hoardings. This effort not only cleans up the city’s appearance but also promotes a more organised and visually appealing urban landscape, reflecting a commitment to civic discipline and environmental respect. The removal of these unauthorised materials also contributes to cleaner air and reduces waste generation, aligning with sustainable urban practices. The comprehensive nature of this campaign positions it as a vital step towards making Delhi a more liveable, resilient, and environmentally conscious metropolis. By focusing on fundamental aspects of urban management – from waste and drainage to public lighting and visual pollution – the government is demonstrating a holistic approach to improving the quality of life for its citizens. As Delhi prepares for the monsoon season, these proactive measures are crucial for ensuring the city’s infrastructure can withstand environmental challenges, safeguarding public health and maintaining urban functionality, thus strengthening its position as a truly modern Indian city.
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