Indore tops new 'Super Swachh League'; sanitation workers celebrate with firecrackers, sweets

INDORE: Celebrations erupted in Indore as the city was officially recognised for its unparalleled commitment to cleanliness, securing high marks in the Swachh Survekshan 2024.

The announcement, made on Thursday in Delhi, saw President Draupadi Murmu honouring Indore for its consistent excellence.Adding another feather to its cap, Indore was the first to be awarded in the elite 'Super Swachh League' in the above 10 lakh population category. This newly formed league comprises 23 cities in different population categories that have consistently ranked among the top three in previous surveys, highlighting their sustained leadership in sanitation. In the above 10 lakh population category, Indore competed fiercely with Surat, Navi Mumbai, and Vijayawada.Sanitation workers across Indore marked the achievement with jubilant celebrations. They distributed sweets, danced to "Swachhata Anthems," and burst firecrackers, reflecting the collective pride in their city's remarkable accomplishment. Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav, and the Municipal Commissioner Shivam Verma received the award.

Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav proudly declared, "Indore is once again at the forefront." He explained that the central govt placed Indore and similar cities in a separate league this time, conducting rankings for other cities independently. "Even within this league, Indore's result is paramount," he added.Mayor Bhargav emphasised that Indore, becoming a cleanliness model for cities across the country, has moved far beyond the competition for the number one spot.

"Now, Indore is in the role of a guide and will teach other cities the lessons of cleanliness," he stated, hinting at a new era of mentorship.Indore maintained its first-place ranking in the Swachh Survekshan since 2017. Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously lauded Indore, remarking that "when other cities think of doing something, Indore has already done it." This sentiment has proven true for sanitation, with Indore's public participation model receiving widespread acclaim across the nation.

A series of innovations, seamless coordination, and a constant zeal for new initiatives have kept Indore ahead of other cities.

While other cities are striving for the top three positions, Indore has reached a unique pedestal by consistently ranking first for eight consecutive years.On Thursday, the program announcing the Swachh Survekshan results was broadcast live on large screens at the Municipal Corporation headquarters, allowing residents to witness their city's triumph. Members of the IMC Council and officials joined in the celebrations.