Gurgaon has begun an 11-week cleanliness drive under the Haryana Shahri Swachhta Abhiyan, starting September 7 and continuing until November 7. The campaign aims not only to clean the city but also to build awareness and encourage residents to adopt cleanliness as part of their daily routine. Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar, who chaired a meeting about the initiative, said the goal is to change how people think about sanitation and to make it a way of life.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, government departments, school and college students, volunteers, and residents are all expected to join. The campaign will cover city roads, markets, public spaces, and residential areas. Participants will also take the pledge “Swachhta Meri Zimmedari,” which means “Cleanliness is my responsibility.” Kumar highlighted that the government is taking firm steps to make Haryana cleaner and healthier, while also reaching families and neighborhoods with this message.
Officials have met with RWAs, NGOs, and social groups to ensure widespread participation. The government has also asked NGOs to share ideas for better waste management. Kumar urged officers to begin the drive in their own offices before expanding to the rest of the city. He said that visible results must be achieved in the coming weeks, and if successful, Gurgaon could become a model city for others to follow.
The drive comes amid complaints from residents about poor garbage management and sanitation, with similar issues reported in Punjab. Some community groups, including expats, have already started independent cleanliness efforts. Earlier this month, Rajesh Khullar, the Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, inspected sanitation in Gurgaon, stressing the urgency of the issue.
The Haryana Shahri Swachhta Abhiyan is part of the broader Swachh Bharat Mission, which works to improve cleanliness and solid waste management in cities across India. Alongside Gurgaon, cities like Mohali and Chandigarh are also participating. If residents and authorities work together, Gurgaon could set an example for other regions in Haryana and Punjab. With active public support, the city hopes to achieve a cleaner and healthier future for its citizens.
