Patna: With the aim of strengthening the city’s sanitation system and improving its ranking in the upcoming Swachh Survekshan, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a new initiative called ‘Nagar Mitra’. Under the scheme, one Nagar Mitra will be selected in every ward to help implement the cleanliness campaign effectively at the grassroots level.
PMC officials said lasting and wide-ranging change is not possible unless ordinary citizens are directly involved in the cleanliness movement. The concept of Nagar Mitra has been introduced to ensure public participation and make the city cleaner and more beautiful.
From Monitoring to Awareness, Key Role Defined
The role of a Nagar Mitra will not be limited to monitoring. They will also work to create a positive environment for cleanliness in their respective areas, spread awareness, and motivate people to adopt hygienic habits.
Each Nagar Mitra will regularly monitor the road, lane and nearby public places covering about five houses on either side of their residence. They will ensure that no one throws garbage on roads, in lanes, drains or open spaces.
Reporting Issues, Promoting Good Practices
It will also be their responsibility to inform the Municipal Corporation in time about any sanitation-related problems so that quick and effective solutions can be ensured.
They will encourage local residents to segregate wet and dry waste, cooperate with door-to-door garbage collection, limit the use of plastic and follow cleanliness-related rules.
How Will Nagar Mitras Be Selected?
The selection process will be carried out under the supervision of PMC’s sanitation inspectors and city managers. Feedback will also be taken from nearby households to ensure that only responsible, aware and cleanliness-sensitive citizens are chosen for this important role.
The Corporation aims to bring forward people who can set an example in society and inspire others to maintain cleanliness.
Photos to Be Displayed on VMDs
PMC has also decided that just as photos of ‘Nagar Shatru’ (those who spread filth) were earlier displayed on Variable Message Display (VMD) boards installed by Patna Smart City, photos of selected Nagar Mitras will now be displayed on VMDs.
This will not only give recognition and respect to citizens doing good work but will also send a positive message to society.
Campaign Against ‘Nagar Shatru’ Continues
PMC’s campaign against Nagar Shatru is continuing. So far, around 2,000 people have been identified under the intensive drive. The figures across circles are: Nutan Rajdhani – 650, Bankipur – 400, Kankarbagh – 390, Patliputra – 396, Azimabad – 100 and Patna City – 120.
Focus on Better Swachh Survekshan Performance
According to officials, the entire initiative is being carried out keeping the upcoming Swachh Survekshan in mind, with the aim of improving Patna’s ranking and placing the city among the clean and beautiful cities of the country. The Corporation is hopeful that with the support of Nagar Mitras and citizens, Patna can be transformed into a clean, healthy and model city.
