Understanding Indore’s Consistent Cleanliness Triumph

Introduction

• Indore, once ranked 25th in the Swachh Survekshan rankings, has emerged as India’s cleanest city for the seventh consecutive year. The city’s remarkable ascent from its initial ranking prompts an exploration into the measures that transformed its sanitation and waste management systems. This article delves into the criteria behind the Swachh Survekshan rankings, the pivotal role played by citizen feedback and field assessments, and the strategic initiatives implemented by Indore.

Decoding the Swachh Survekshan Methodology

• The Swachh Survekshan Awards, initiated as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission, hinge on citizen feedback and field assessments. State governments input data into the Swachh Bharat Mission Management Information System, validated through citizen assessments. The criteria encompass various aspects, such as waste collection frequency, technical support for sanitation workers, and citizen awareness.

Indore’s Sustainable Sanitation System

• Indore’s consistent success is attributed to its robust garbage collection, processing, and disposal system. Amit Dubey, the consultant for the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, underscores the development of a sustainable foundation as the key factor behind Indore’s triumph.

Strategic Measures Undertaken by Indore

1. Segregation and Disposal of Waste

• Indore Municipal Corporation terminated private contracts for solid waste collection, taking on the responsibility directly. Changes in garbage disposal routes facilitated the direct collection of segregated waste from households, enforced through awareness campaigns and NGO involvement.

2. Legacy Waste Management

• To address accumulated untreated waste, Indore undertook the clearing and treating of nearly 13 lakh metric tonnes at the Devguradiya ground within six months. This swift action aimed to meet the survey’s criteria, emphasizing the treatment of 75% of waste at dumping sites for a five-star rating.

3. Infrastructure Development

• Funds from various sources were utilized to construct 10 transfer stations, each costing Rs 4 crore, to collect and transport waste before reaching the dumping ground. Additionally, efforts were made to convert wet waste into compost, and a new treatment plant for dry waste was established in 2016.

4. Citizen Engagement and Awareness

• NGOs played a crucial role in identifying areas requiring urinals and toilets, contributing to the eradication of open defecation. Former Mayor Malini Gaud emphasized the importance of citizen participation, holding numerous meetings and administering cleanliness oaths to foster a sense of responsibility.

Conclusion

• Indore’s journey to becoming India’s cleanest city is a testament to its comprehensive approach, combining efficient waste management, infrastructure development, and citizen engagement. The city’s commitment to sustainability and cleanliness serves as a model for others, showcasing the transformative power of strategic initiatives and community involvement.