4000 citizens part take in the activity

Navi Mumbai: In a remarkable display of community spirit, the Maha Swachhata Abhiyan was launched in Asia's largest Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), witnessing the participation of over 4,000 citizens. Organized in collaboration with the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation and Mumbai Agricultural Produce Market Committee, the campaign aimed at enhancing cleanliness and hygiene across the market's five key sectors.

The initiative saw participation from a diverse group, including NSS students from various colleges, Mathadi workers, sanitation workers, public representatives, and members of several voluntary organizations. Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Dr. Kailas Shinde officially launched the campaign at the Kanda Batata Market, where participants took a collective oath to maintain cleanliness and promote a plastic-free environment.

The comprehensive cleaning effort encompassed the vegetable, fruit, spice, and grain markets, ensuring that all areas were thoroughly cleaned. The initiative forms part of the nationwide 'Swachhata Hi Seva' fortnight, running from September 17 to October 2, 2024, under the guidance of Dr. Kailas Shinde, emphasizing broad public engagement.

Dr. Shinde highlighted the importance of cleanliness in these bustling markets, which serve as crucial supply points for food grains, fruits, and vegetables to the entire Mumbai metropolitan region. He called on citizens to adopt cleanliness as a daily habit for better health.

The campaign utilized various cleaning vehicles, including mechanical sweepers, jetting machines, and garbage collection units, to effectively address the challenges posed by the high foot traffic approximately 40,000 citizens visit the five markets daily.

In addition to the cleaning drive, health check-up camps and tobacco-free awareness initiatives for sanitation workers in the APMC market will also be organized to ensure their well-being.

The event concluded with inspections by Dr. Kailas Shinde and APMC Secretary Dr. P.L. Khandagale, who recommended improvements to maintain regular cleanliness in the market. The campaign, a collaboration of multiple stakeholders, has set a benchmark for community involvement in sanitation efforts.