In a bid to enhance cleanliness and beautification efforts at river ghats during the Chhath Mahaparva, the Yogi Adityanath-led government has launched the Swacch Ghat Pratiyogita 2.0 (Clean Ghat Competition 2.0) across Uttar Pradesh.
The initiative, which runs until November 8 seeks to promote a cleaner, plastic-free environment by actively engaging local communities, schools, NGOs, and volunteer groups.
The program has introduced the concept of "Arpan Kalash" at each ghat, where devotees can contribute offerings while being reminded to maintain the cleanliness of the area. Ghats are also designated as "No Plastic Zones" under this initiative, restricting the use of plastic and thermocol items, which are commonly used in religious rituals.
To ensure convenience and sanitation for devotees, temporary toilets and bathing facilities have been installed, with daily maintenance teams in place. This effort is being reinforced by the Swachh Sarathi Club, schools, colleges, universities, and other voluntary groups who are contributing to the success of the competition by spreading awareness on cleanliness.
The initiative also emphasizes waste management by installing dustbins at strategic locations across ghats to facilitate proper disposal. Citizens are being encouraged to actively participate in cleanliness drives, making the festival a community-led effort to beautify the riverside areas.
Numerous NGOs and civil society organizations have joined hands with the government, not only conducting cleanliness campaigns but also educating the public on sustainable environmental practices.
