Chandigarh: In a significant stride towards fostering environmental responsibility and community involvement, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh (MCC) today launched a special cleanliness drive under the theme ‘Hamaare Park, Hamaari Jimmedaari’ (Our Park, Our Responsibility) at the Fragrance Garden, Sector 36. This initiative is a crucial component of the ongoing ‘Swachhotsav’ Pakhwada, a fortnight-long cleanliness festival aligned with the Swachh Bharat Mission.
Commissioner Spearheads Community-Led Cleanliness Effort
The drive was spearheaded by Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, the Commissioner of MCC. He was joined by Sh. Jasbir Singh Bunty, Senior Deputy Mayor and Area Councillor, Sh. Sanjay Arora, Chief Engineer, Dr. Inderdeep Kaur, Medical Officer Health, Sh. K.P. Singh, SE, Horticulture, along with office bearers of the Area Residents’ Welfare Association. Adding youthful vigor to the cause, school children associated with the Don Bosco Society also enthusiastically participated in the event.
Plogging and Pledge for a Cleaner Chandigarh
The event saw participants engage in a ‘plogging’ activity, combining jogging with litter collection, across the Hibiscus and Fragrance Gardens. The team also meticulously cleaned the dustbins installed within the parks, reinforcing the message of shared responsibility in maintaining public spaces. In a symbolic gesture, all participants took a solemn pledge to uphold the values of ‘Swachhata’ (cleanliness) and to continue their efforts towards making Chandigarh cleaner and greener.
Emphasis on Public Participation and Sustained Efforts
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner Sh. Amit Kumar highlighted the crucial role of public participation in ensuring the sustained success of such initiatives. “Cleanliness is not the job of one authority alone—it is a collective duty. Through campaigns like these, we aim to instill a sense of ownership among citizens toward their surroundings,” he stated. He further added that the MCC’s ‘Hamaare Park, Hamaari Jimmedaari’ campaign continues to gain momentum, setting a strong example of civic responsibility and environmental consciousness.
Senior Deputy Mayor Sh. Jasbir Bunty emphasized that Swachhotsav is not merely a campaign but a movement aimed at building a more conscious and responsible community. He commended the involvement of local residents, school children, and civil society organizations like the Don Bosco Society, noting that such collaborations truly reflect the spirit of ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (public participation). He encouraged continuous engagement in similar activities beyond the fortnight, to ensure that cleanliness becomes a sustained way of life rather than a one-time event.
