Thiruvananthapuram: The corporation was officially declared a ‘Water Plus’ city under Swachh Survekshan 2024. Thiruvananthapuram corporation is the first in the state to achieve this certification. It acknowledges the city’s comprehensive efforts in maintaining sanitation and ensuring the safe treatment and disposal of wastewater.The Water Plus certification was awarded based on a detailed assessment that confirmed Thiruvananthapuram meets all essential criteria, including the prevention of untreated wastewater entering open areas, drains or water bodies. The assessment covered key zones under the corporation where critical facilities and activities were evaluated. These included public and community toilets, households, the STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) at Muttathara, septic tank management and the collection and transportation of faecal sludge.The corporation’s application for certification was submitted earlier in 2024, followed by a rigorous verification process by an independent agency appointed by the ministry of housing and urban affairs (MoHUA). As part of the verification, 24 key points across the city were inspected, involving both govt and non-govt institutions, including the police headquarters, the Central Prison and various residential areas.To raise awareness and engage citizens, the corporation earlier organised a cleanliness campaign with the themes; ‘Wastewater-free city,’ ‘Let’s keep the drains clean,’ ‘From source to treatment, protect every drop,’ ‘Clean water, healthy life,’ ‘Clean drains, safe homes,’ and ‘Drains are not dumping grounds.’ These campaigns played a pivotal role in building community participation and meeting the Water Plus standards.The corporation emphasised that this achievement was the result of coordinated efforts between various departments and locals. The public is urged to continue maintaining hygiene standards and work collectively to ensure that the city retains its Water Plus status.This recognition places Thiruvananthapuram among the leading cities in India for urban sanitation and sustainable wastewater management. The corporation has extended its gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to this achievement.
