Visakhapatnam Division Observes Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 with Extensive Cleanliness Initiatives 700 Cleanliness Target Units Taken Up Against Target of 650

Visakhapatnam -Indian News Times -2 October 2026: The Visakhapatnam Division of South Coast Railway observed Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 from 17 September to 2 October 2026, undertaking a series of cleanliness, awareness and environmental initiatives across railway premises.

Speaking on the occasion, the Divisional Railway Manager, Visakhapatnam Division, stated that the campaign focused on strengthening cleanliness, environmental responsibility and public participation. The Division identified 700 Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs), exceeding the target of 650 allotted by South Coast Railway Headquarters.

The campaign witnessed active participation of railway officers and staff, Safai Mitras, students and members of the public. Major initiatives included Swachhata Pledge and awareness programmes, mass Shramdaan, intensive cleaning of stations, platforms, offices, colonies and toilets, CTU transformation and trackside cleaning, including removal of waste from Garbage Vulnerable Points.

Cleanliness awareness programmes were conducted for school students, along with STP visits, drawing competitions, sports and community activities. The Division also promoted Kabaad Se Jugaad, waste segregation, recycling, reuse of railway scrap and plantation activities to encourage sustainable environmental practices.

Special attention was given to the welfare of Safai Mitras, with health check-ups, awareness programmes and felicitation of sanitation workers for their contribution towards maintaining cleanliness in railway premises. A cycle rally involving railway officers and staff was also organised to spread the message of cleanlin environment.

The 130th anniversary of Visakhapatnam Railway Station was celebrated through a grand Station Mahotsav, featuring illumination of the station building, march-past, raising of hydrogen balloon dispalyed with Heritage Celebration and a heritage gallery showcasing historical railway artefacts and photographs.

The Swachhata Hi Seva campaign culminated on 2 October with Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at Visakhapatnam Railway Station. The programme included garlanding of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, administration of the Swachhata Pledge and a Swachhata Rally in the station premises.

The Divisional Railway Manager appreciated the active participation of railway personnel, Safai Mitras, students, passengers and the public, and emphasised that cleanliness must remain a continuous collective responsibility.

The Division will sustain the momentum through Swachhata Pakhwada from 1 to 15 October 2026 and Special Campaign 6.0 from 16 to 31 October 2026, with continued focus on cleanliness, waste management and environmental sustainability.