New Delhi: Delhi govt Monday launched a two-month cleanliness campaign across the city, which will focus on garbage-sensitive spots, waste segregation, scientific processing of waste and cleanliness of public spaces. A ward-level competition will continue for 12 months, and the best ward of each month will get Rs 1 crore.Chief minister Rekha Gupta said ‘Delhi Ko Kude Se Azadi-Swachhta Abhiyan 2026’ would continue till Oct 2 and cover govt offices, markets, schools, hospitals, industrial areas and other public spaces, focusing on finding permanent solutions for garbage-sensitive locations.CM’s office said the fund for the cleanest ward would come from the chief minister’s development funds. Performance will be assessed using reports from an independent agency, officials, and complaints from citizens and on social media. A ward may be disqualified if garbage complaints are found to be true.The campaign will focus on the ‘four Cs’ of waste management — collection, cleaning, conversion and circular economy. The emphasis will be on segregation of waste at source, proper collection, scientific processing at waste facilities and immediate action, besides promoting the conversion of waste into resources and green fuel. “The campaign is aimed at making cleanliness a part of citizens’ daily behaviour ,” said Gupta.Cleanliness drives will be held in slum clusters on Aug 23 and 30 and Sept 6 and 13, while public toilets will receive special attention every Saturday and Sunday. A green-waste removal drive will run from Sept 1 to 10, followed by a cleanliness drive at govt hospitals on Sept 17. From Sept 17 to Oct 2, govt schools will participate in the ‘Mera School, Sabse Sundar’ competition, along with a zero-waste campus campaign.Urban development minister Ashish Sood said the campaign sought to change citizens’ approach to cleanliness. Mayor Pravesh Wahi said better coordination between Delhi govt and MCD would be used to strengthen waste management, sanitation and upkeep of public spaces.Delhi govt has directed civic authorities and departments to prepare detailed action plans and ensure time-bound implementation and regular monitoring.
