Prayagraj got First Place in Swachh Survekshan 2024/25

New Delhi / Prayagraj : In a proud moment for Uttar Pradesh, Prayagraj has been awarded the first position in the Ganga Town category under Swachh Survekshan 2024/25, the national cleanliness survey conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The award ceremony was held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, where President of India presented the national honors during a prestigious event celebrating urban cleanliness across India.

Umesh Chandra Ganesh Kesarwani, Mayor of Prayagraj, received the award from Union Minister for Urban Development, Manohar Lal Khattar, in recognition of Prayagraj’s excellence in sanitation, particularly during the Mahakumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering in the world. The city was also presented with a Special Recognition Award for maintaining high standards of cleanliness during this mega event.

Mayor Kesarwani, addressing the audience, dedicated the award to the citizens of Prayagraj, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and hard work.

“This recognition is a result of the collective effort of our people. Their discipline, awareness, and participation have brought Prayagraj to the forefront of cleanliness in India,” he said.
“By fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a clean and healthy India, Prayagraj has emerged as a national example.”

The event witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, including A.K. Sharma, Minister of Urban Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Anuj Jha, Special Secretary, Urban Development Department, UP; Seelam Sai Teja, Municipal Commissioner of Prayagraj; and Deependra Yadav, Additional Municipal Commissioner.

Joining Mayor Kesarwani were civic leaders from Prayagraj, including Girijesh Mishra, Pramod Jaiswal Modi, Rajan Shukla, Shyam Prakash Pandey, Abhishek Singh, and Rishi Yadav, who collectively shared the moment of pride.

The recognition has been widely celebrated across the city. Elected representatives, municipal officials, sanitation staff, and the entire team of safai mitras (cleanliness workers) extended congratulations to the people of Prayagraj for their achievement.

The Swachh Survekshan is an annual nationwide cleanliness survey that evaluates cities based on various sanitation metrics, citizen feedback, innovation, and sustainability practices. Prayagraj’s impressive performance in implementing solid waste management, community participation, and urban hygiene during high-pressure events like the Mahakumbh has made it a standout performer.

This award not only reinforces Prayagraj’s reputation as a spiritual and cultural center but also as a model city in urban sanitation and public participation. With this accomplishment, the city has cemented its place as a leader in the Swachh Bharat Mission, setting high benchmarks for other cities to follow.