In a resounding display of community commitment towards cleanliness and environmental preservation, a monumental "Swachhata hi Sewa" mega cleanliness drive was conducted at the Chatlam Wetland Reserve which was inaugurated by Commissioner Secretary, Rural Development Department, Mandeep Kaur. Deputy Commissioner, Dr Basharat Qayoom, Chairperson District Development Council, PRIs and senior officers of district administration were present on the occasion.
The program commenced with a solemn pledge ceremony reinforcing the values of cleanliness, sobriety and non-violence. The participants took Swachhata pledge ensuring to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings, Nasha Mukht pledge committing towards a substance-free lifestyle and the non violence pledge affirming a commitment towards heralding peace and harmony. In her speech, Commissioner Secretary emphasized the pivotal role of individuals in ensuring cleanliness and preserving the environment. She urged upon the people to take responsibility for their surroundings, stressing the importance of cleanliness and discouraging loitering in public spaces.
She applauded the Deputy Commissioner, who also serves as the Chairman of District Sanitation Committee, and the district administration for their efforts towards ensuring cleanliness and sanitation in the district. She recognized the officers and officials besides PRIs for their unwavering commitment towards promoting Swachhata (cleanliness) across the district. Commissioner Secretary lauded efforts of all stakeholders for making J&K UT ODF plus. She emphasized the role of the department in creating assets and urged upon the citizens to work towards sustainable utilization of created assets through community led ownership and taking responsibility of litter in around households and other establishments.
The extensive cleanliness drive around the Chatlam Wetland Reserve, a crucial ecosystem in the region, was marked by enthusiastic participation from all corners of the community, showcasing a collective dedication towards preserving the natural heritage. Deputy Commissioner informed that Pulwama district has achieved ODF PLUS status (Open Defecation Free Plus) and door-to-door waste collection initiatives are being encouraged vigrously across the district.
He emphasized the importance of forward and backward linkages in waste management and expressed the district's commitment towards exploring ways to link waste with financial incentives. He assured that Pulwama would strive to become a model district in terms of cleanliness and environmental sustainability.