Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) successfully executed a large-scale night-shift cleanliness drive during Diwali, collecting approximately 140 tonnes of waste daily, signalling the city’s commitment to sustainable urban management. The initiative underscored the importance of civic responsibility, eco-friendly waste management, and proactive municipal planning to maintain public health and hygiene during high-waste festive periods.
The drive was meticulously planned, covering 41.8 kilometres of key roads each night. PMC deployed 104 sanitation workers on night duty to ensure continuous street cleaning and efficient waste collection. According to officials, this strategy allowed the city to manage the surge in waste generated from fireworks, decorative materials, flowers, pooja items, and packaging, which typically poses a challenge to municipal systems during Diwali. Supporting the workforce, PMC mobilised a specialised fleet comprising nine compactor trucks, seven tippers, one JCB, and a Hydra to collect and transport waste effectively. The comprehensive equipment deployment reflected the city’s focus on operational efficiency and sustainability, preventing environmental hazards while maintaining public spaces in a pristine condition.
Citizen participation emerged as a pivotal factor in the campaign’s success. The municipal corporation had encouraged residents to segregate wet and dry waste, aligning with broader goals of zero net carbon cities and responsible urban living. Local communities responded positively, contributing to smoother operations and promoting awareness around eco-friendly waste management practices. Experts highlight that night-shift operations are strategically beneficial in urban environments where daytime traffic and market activity often impede sanitation efforts. By scheduling deep-cleaning operations overnight, PMC not only maximised efficiency but also minimised disruption to daily life, ensuring that streets and marketplaces were ready for citizens’ use each morning.
The initiative reflects a growing trend among Indian cities to integrate sustainability and civic participation into urban management. By setting a benchmark in festive waste management, PMC demonstrates how municipal authorities can proactively address environmental concerns while fostering a culture of civic responsibility. Continuous monitoring, effective resource deployment, and citizen collaboration were crucial elements that enabled the city to maintain high hygiene standards during one of the busiest festival periods of the year. With a strong message of “Clean Panvel, Progressive Panvel”, the municipal corporation continues to prioritise eco-friendly and equitable city governance. The successful execution of the Diwali night-shift drive reinforces Panvel’s position as a city that balances growth, sustainability, and citizen well-being, providing a model for other urban centres to emulate.
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