In a bid to enhance cleanliness standards ahead of 'Swachh Survekshan 2024', the commissioner of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), Dr. Kailas Shinde has issued comprehensive directives aimed at increasing public engagement in sanitation initiatives.

 Addressing officers, Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde underscored the significance of cleanliness as a hallmark of Navi Mumbai's identity. Emphasizing proactive measures, he urged schools, colleges, and citizens to actively participate in cleanliness drives and adopt responsible waste management practices from a young age.

"As we prepare for 'Swachh Survekshan 2024', it is crucial to involve every segment of society, including educational institutions and community organizations," stated Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde. He highlighted the appointment of departmental nodal officers to oversee cleanliness operations and ensure adherence to sanitation standards across all sectors.

The Commissioner stressed the importance of segregating waste into wet, dry, and household hazardous categories at source, encouraging citizens to deposit e-waste on designated collection days. Additionally, initiatives such as 'Zero Waste Slum', 'Dry Waste Bank', and 'Fish Fed' were endorsed to promote sustainable waste management practices.

In a move to beautify public spaces, Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde instructed expedited maintenance of city sculptures, fountains, and waste bins. He also announced plans to outfit sanitation workers, known as Swachhta Mitra, with branded jackets featuring cleanliness messages to raise awareness effectively.

Under the 'Three R' concept—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—'Three R Centers' will be established at 92 strategic locations across the city to facilitate the exchange of reusable items among citizens. The initiative aims to promote community participation in waste reduction efforts.

Recognizing citizen enthusiasm, Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde applauded the success of initiatives like the Guthli Returns for mango seed collection and proposed setting up mango seed collection corners in schools to sustain community involvement.

Furthermore, innovative cleanliness voting initiatives will be introduced in schools alongside tree plantation drives under the Majhi Vasundhara Abhiyan, reinforcing environmental stewardship among students.

Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde affirmed the municipal corporation's commitment to welfare schemes for sanitation workers, including health insurance, pension benefits, and educational scholarships for their children.