Bokaro Launches River & Urban Cleanliness Drive: April 14-22

Bokaro: Concerns over increasing pollution in the Garga and Damodar rivers, along with deteriorating sanitation in urban areas, have pushed the district administration to roll out a comprehensive cleanliness drive from April 14 to 22. The decision was taken during a review meeting of the district Ganga committee chaired by deputy commissioner Ajay Nath Jha at the collectorate on Thursday.

Officials highlighted that unregulated disposal of waste, including ritual offerings, has been a major contributor to pollution in water bodies. To address this, the administration has planned a structured campaign focusing on both river cleaning and urban sanitation. Areas under Chas Municipal Corporation, Phusro Nagar Parishad and BSL Township will be covered extensively.

DC Bokaro Ajay Nath Jha said, “The administration has also proposed setting up a dedicated unit for processing ritual waste to ensure proper collection and management. In a move aimed at generating livelihood opportunities, a small-scale agarbatti manufacturing unit will be established using recycled materials. This initiative is expected to benefit local residents, particularly women and youth.”

During the meeting, the deputy commissioner stressed that cleanliness should be treated as a collective social responsibility rather than a one-time programme. He directed all departments and civic bodies to work in coordination to ensure effective implementation.