Vasai-Virar :- In line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision and to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, the “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign launched the initiative “One Date – One Hour” in Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation on October 1, 2023. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Mr. Khasdar, Shri Rajeev Patil, the Honorable Mayor, and saw enthusiastic participation from various civic representatives and citizens.
This cleanliness drive witnessed the active involvement of 4,331 students from 64 schools, 791 students from 16 colleges, 1,634 members of 42 self-help groups, and 1,070 participants from 107 savings groups. In addition, 9,612 civic representatives, senior citizens, and members of other organizations came together, totaling a remarkable 17,438 participants. The collective effort spanned an area of 2,37,998 square meters and cleaned 40,353 meters of roads, resulting in the disposal of 56 tons of waste.
The campaign’s distinctive features included:
1) A bicycle rally named “Tour de Vasai” organized by Amey Club Virar (P) from 6:30 AM onwards, engaging 350 participants in cleaning Vasai Fort.
2) Students from three schools, women’s savings groups, and senior citizens participated in a cleanliness drive at Rajodi Beach. This initiative included surfing and adventure sports for 500 students.
3) Each ward committee organized street plays to promote cleanliness and spread awareness about reducing single-use plastic.
4) The “Hindu-Muslim Unity Group” conducted cleanliness drives at six locations, emphasizing communal harmony alongside cleanliness efforts.
5) The Vasai Industrial Association organized an industrial area cleanliness drive.
6) In Ward H, senior citizens registered their commitment to cleanliness as part of the campaign.
7) The campaign extended its reach to five hospitals, 21 public health centers, fire stations, gardens, and ponds, all benefiting from cleanliness efforts.
8) Several organizations such as Amey Classic Club Virar, Nanasaheb Dharmadhikari Foundation, Sant Nirankari Mandal Rays, Dhyas Foundation, Mauli Mitra Mandal, and Chhatrapati Shahu Foundation actively participated in the campaign.
The “One Date – One Hour” campaign in Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation garnered significant citizen participation and has been a tremendous success, showcasing the power of collective action in promoting cleanliness and community spirit.
