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Lucknow: In preparation for the upcoming festivals, the Uttar Pradesh government has initiated the ‘Swachh Diwali, Shubh Diwali’ campaign across the state, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and eco-friendliness during the celebrations. Under this campaign, a comprehensive plan has been devised to ensure complete cleanliness and minimal waste generation during Diwali and Chhath Puja.
Activities planned under the campaign include the Clean Diwali Signature Campaign, Swachh Diwali Drives, RRR (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) Centres, Swachh Tyohar initiatives, and campaigns against banned plastic products. Municipal commissioners have been directed to actively implement these activities. Special efforts will be made to clean the ghats before Diwali and Chhath Puja, and outstanding work by civic bodies will be recognized through a state-level Swachh Ghat competition.
A significant aspect of the campaign involves conducting a signature campaign in public places, such as government offices, markets, and educational institutions, to garner support for a clean and green festival season. Civic bodies are encouraged to create short video reels promoting cleanliness with innovative ideas, which will be shared on their social media platforms.
The campaign also emphasizes the promotion of the 3R concept (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) through RRR Centres in all civic bodies, raising awareness about cleanliness both at home and in the community. To minimize environmental impact, single-use plastic will be banned, and the use of alternatives like jute bags and cloth bags will be encouraged. Civic bodies will actively promote local products on Dhanteras under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.
Additionally, LED vans and smart hoardings will be utilized to broadcast audio and video messages related to cleanliness for ‘Swachh’ Diwali celebrations. Schools, colleges, and universities will organize rangoli competitions, debates, art competitions, and other activities to raise awareness about eco-friendly celebrations.
A special drive will enforce a ban on plastic products, ensuring that upcoming festivals are celebrated as ‘Zero Plastic Events’ and ‘Zero Waste Events’. Through these concerted efforts, Uttar Pradesh aims to celebrate festivals in an environmentally responsible manner, fostering a sense of cleanliness and sustainability among its citizens.
