According to Amit Dubey, the consultant for the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan at the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC), Indore has a well-established system for collecting, processing, and disposing of garbage. The city’s success in the National Cleanliness Survey is attributed to this effective foundation.
Indore took early action by addressing the different factors considered in the survey. They implemented several measures, such as improving the sanitation and waste collection system. Additionally, efforts were made to promote these initiatives among citizens, encouraging better habits related to sanitation.
Former Mayor Malini Gaud explains one secret of Indore’s success: its people! She held 400 meetings in a year, rallying them behind the cleanliness campaign and getting over 4 lakh people to pledge to keep the city clean.
But some folks needed a little nudge. So, IMC started fining Rs 250-500 for spitting, littering, and peeing outdoors. “Other ways of stopping these habits haven’t worked,” the Mayor said. “So, we’re trying public shaming.” Names of offenders were published in newspapers and even announced on the radio! Sometimes, the Mayor herself hopped out of her car to fine people directly!
It might seem a bit harsh, but it worked. People became more mindful of their actions, and Indore continued to sparkle. So, remember, every small step by each resident makes a big difference in keeping a city clean!