Cleanliness Drive – Kolkata Steps Up Preparations Ahead of PM Modi’s Visit
Cleanliness Drive – As preparations gather pace for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposed visit to West Bengal on International Yoga Day, a major cleanliness campaign is being carried out across Kolkata and other parts of the state. On Wednesday, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari joined the ongoing “Swachhata Se Swagat” programme at Mayer Ghat, highlighting the administration’s focus on sanitation and public participation ahead of the June 21 event.
Chief Minister Joins Ground-Level Activities
The cleanliness initiative, which began earlier this week, is scheduled to continue until June 20. The campaign aims to improve public spaces and strengthen awareness about maintaining a cleaner environment. During the programme at Mayer Ghat, Adhikari was accompanied by state minister Agnimitra Paul along with senior officials and local representatives.
In a symbolic gesture supporting the campaign, the Chief Minister personally participated in sweeping sections of the ghat staircase. His involvement was intended to encourage citizens to take an active role in keeping public areas clean and well-maintained.
Preparations Underway for Prime Minister’s Arrival
Speaking to media personnel during the event, Adhikari said that extensive arrangements were being made in anticipation of the Prime Minister’s visit. He noted that both the state administration and civic authorities were working together to ensure smooth preparations.
According to him, the campaign is not merely linked to a single occasion but forms part of a broader effort to promote cleanliness and civic responsibility across West Bengal. He also welcomed the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit and expressed confidence that all necessary preparations would be completed on time.
Call for Long-Term Cleanliness Habits
Adhikari stressed that cleanliness should become a permanent social practice rather than an activity limited to special events. He observed that public sanitation requires continuous attention and collective effort from citizens, local bodies, and government agencies.
He stated that maintaining clean surroundings is essential for improving the quality of life and urged residents across Kolkata and the rest of the state to contribute toward creating a healthier environment. The Chief Minister added that restoring civic habits related to cleanliness would require sustained participation from communities throughout Bengal.
Sanitation Remains a Key Priority
While discussing broader governance issues, Adhikari said that employment generation and maintaining law and order remain important responsibilities of the government. However, he emphasized that environmental hygiene and public sanitation are equally significant for the well-being of residents.
He pointed out that cleaner public spaces, riversides, and urban infrastructure contribute directly to better living conditions and support long-term development goals.
Remarks on Namami Gange Project
During his interaction with reporters, the Chief Minister also commented on the implementation of the Centre’s Namami Gange programme in West Bengal. He alleged that earlier administrations had not adequately supported the project, particularly in matters related to land allocation for Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs).
Adhikari claimed that these challenges slowed progress under the river-cleaning initiative. Looking ahead, he said the government intends to accelerate efforts aimed at improving the condition of the Ganga and advancing pending components of the Namami Gange project.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that continued investment in sanitation infrastructure and river conservation measures would help strengthen environmental protection efforts across the state in the coming years.