Public urged to make cleanliness a part of lifestyle

Annamayya District Collector Nishanth Kumar urged people to make cleanliness a way of life and support efforts to eliminate plastic by promoting the use of reusable materials. The Collector was addressing a gathering at the Swachh Andhra-Swarna Andhra programme in Kalakada, on Saturday.

Addressing a gathering of officials, students, and villagers, the Collector said cleanliness was not a one-time activity, but a continuous process that must become a part of daily life. Maintaining hygiene in villages, towns, schools, and public spaces was essential in building a healthy society, he said. The Collector cautioned that poor sanitation could lead to serious health and environmental problems.

Highlighting the State government’s focus on environment-friendly initiatives, Mr. Nishant Kumar said monthly themes were being introduced to raise awareness among the public. Under the Green Andhra programme, plantation drives were being taken up to enhance green cover and improve environmental conditions.

“Top priority should be given to reducing single-use plastics and encouraging reusable alternatives. Banning plastic water bottles in government secretariats and introducing glass bottles resulted in a significant reduction in plastic waste. Similar measures should be adopted at district, mandal, and village levels,” he added.

Earlier, the Collector inspected a waste-to-wealth centre, reviewed vermicomposting practices, and visited local livelihood units. He later flagged off a rally from the Government Junior College to the RTC bus stand, where a human chain was formed, and a pledge was administered.