Raipur: In a significant achievement that underscores its commitment to urban sanitation, Chhattisgarh has made a stellar mark in the Swachh Survekshan 2024–25, with seven urban local bodies earning national recognition. The annual cleanliness survey, conducted by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, has placed the state firmly on the national map for urban hygiene excellence.
Bilha: India’s Cleanest Town (Under 20,000 Population)
In a landmark accomplishment, Bilha Nagar Panchayat has been declared India’s cleanest city among towns with a population under 20,000. The recognition places Bilha at the top of its category nationwide and signals a new standard for small-town sanitation.
Read also: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai Inaugurates Training Programme for Panchayat Leaders – Details Inside
Bilaspur and Kumhari Also Among Top Performers
Bilaspur secured 2nd place in the 3–10 lakh population category, marking another major win for the state. Kumhari, a town with a population between 20,000 and 50,000, ranked 3rd nationally in its segment.
Three Cities Enter ‘Super Sanitation League’
Chhattisgarh also made its presence felt in the newly introduced Super Sanitation League (SSL), which honours cities that have consistently performed well in the last three years and are among the top 20 this year.
- Ambikapur stood out in the 50,000–3 lakh population bracket.
- Patan and Bishrampur earned accolades in the under-20,000 category.
- Raipur Named ‘Promising Swachh City’ of Chhattisgarh
Raipur, the state capital, was recognized as Chhattisgarh’s “Promising Swachh City”, highlighting its steady progress and future potential in the area of sanitation and cleanliness.
National Recognition and Ceremony in New Delhi
The awards were presented by President Droupadi Murmu at a prestigious ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The event was graced by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal, Minister of State Tokhan Sahu, and various dignitaries.
Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration Minister Arun Sao, along with the mayors and civic officials from the award-winning towns, accepted the honours on behalf of Chhattisgarh.
Leadership Reactions
CM Vishnu Deo Sai said, “This is a proud moment for Chhattisgarh. The recognition is a result of the shared commitment between citizens, local urban bodies, and state administration. It will serve as an inspiration for all towns in our state to strive for a cleaner and greener future.”
Dy CM Arun Sao: “This achievement is not just an award, but a validation of Chhattisgarh’s long-standing efforts in sanitation and cleanliness. Many more cities from the state will soon emerge on the national stage with innovative and sustainable urban practices.”
Swachh Survekshan
Chhattisgarh’s sweeping wins in this year’s Swachh Survekshan reinforce its position as a model state in urban cleanliness. With a combination of strong political will, active civic engagement, and forward-thinking policy, the state continues to set new benchmarks in sustainable urban development.
