Lucknow – Suresh Kumar Khanna, Uttar Pradesh’s Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister and the Minister in charge of Lucknow district, conducted a surprise inspection of the city’s cleanliness system early this morning. Starting at 7:00 AM, the inspection covered four key wards under the Municipal Corporation: Faizullaganj-2, Faizullaganj-3, Aliganj, and Lal Bahadur Shastri-2.
During his inspection, Minister Khanna expressed strong displeasure over the unsatisfactory state of cleanliness, particularly in Faizullaganj-3. Upon discovering poorly maintained drains in the areas of Kasai Bada and Mohibullapur, he reprimanded the Zonal Officer in charge and instructed the Municipal Commissioner to enforce disciplinary action by cutting the officer’s salary. Minister Khanna also stressed the immediate need to clean the drains and remove encroachments that obstructed regular maintenance.
In Faizullaganj-2, the Minister inspected the conditions of covered drains in Rahimnagar, Dudouli Marg, and Kesar Nagar. He directed local authorities to open the drains and ensure the immediate removal of silt that had accumulated inside. The Minister emphasized that sanitation workers and responsible officials must act swiftly and ensure that all drains in these areas were cleaned by the end of the day.
In addition to Faizullaganj, Minister Khanna inspected the cleanliness of Aliganj and Lal Bahadur Shastri-2 wards. While visiting Lal Bahadur Shastri-2, local residents handed over a demand letter detailing issues like waterlogging, streetlight inadequacies, the need for barricading at Sarvodaya Nagar intersection, and the increased capacity of the local Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). Minister Khanna assured residents that their concerns would be thoroughly examined, and efforts would be made to address them at the earliest.
Directives to Municipal Corporation and Zonal Officers
Minister Khanna underscored the importance of regular inspections by zonal officers in their respective zones to ensure cleanliness and the proper maintenance of drains. He instructed the Municipal Commissioner to identify vacant plots in these wards and issue notices to the plot owners to construct boundary walls, as many vacant spaces were becoming hubs for garbage accumulation, which could lead to diseases and mosquito breeding.
Recognizing the upcoming festive season, the Minister stressed the need for increased preventive measures against diseases, including regular anti-larval spraying and fumigation in densely populated areas. He also called for strict quality control on the city’s drinking water supply, emphasizing the importance of pure water for public health.
Cleanliness Awareness and Public Responsibility
Suresh Kumar Khanna appealed to citizens to contribute actively to the cleanliness drive. He highlighted that maintaining a clean environment not only prevents diseases but also fosters a healthier lifestyle. The Minister urged residents to make cleanliness a daily habit and to raise awareness among their neighbors and communities. He further encouraged people to build house ramps directed towards the road instead of above the drains, as such obstructions led to waterlogging and road blockages during the rainy season.
Officials Present During Inspection
The inspection was attended by prominent city officials, including Lucknow Mayor Mrs. Sushma Kharwal, Municipal Commissioner Inderjit Singh, and the Chairman of the Swachhata Protsahan Samiti, Sunil Kumar Mishra. Other officials from the Municipal Corporation, as well as public representatives, were also present.
The surprise inspection is part of a broader effort by the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure that Lucknow maintains a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene, especially during the festive season when the risk of disease outbreaks is heightened. Minister Khanna’s strong message to local authorities, along with his emphasis on public participation, indicates a clear focus on keeping the city clean and ensuring the health and safety of its residents.
