Lucknow/New Delhi: In a remarkable achievement for Uttar Pradesh, the state emerged as a standout performer in the Swachh Survekshan 2024–25, India’s largest cleanliness survey. Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state secured several top national rankings across categories, with Lucknow bagging the third spot among cities with a population of over 10 lakh and receiving the prestigious Presidential Award.
The awards were presented by President Droupadi Murmu during a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Thursday. Uttar Pradesh’s Urban Development Minister AK Sharma accepted the honours on behalf of the state.
A Moment of Glory for Lucknow
Lucknow’s recognition as the third cleanest city in India among metro cities marks a historic milestone. Notably, the city became the first in Uttar Pradesh to earn the elite 7-Star Garbage Free City (GFC) rating, highlighting its exceptional waste management system. The award cements Lucknow’s growing status as a model city for urban cleanliness and sustainability.
Prayagraj Named Cleanest Ganga City
Adding to the state’s accolades, Prayagraj was awarded the title of Cleanest Ganga City. The city’s sustained efforts in preserving the sanctity and cleanliness of the Ganges, especially during mega-events like Mahakumbh, earned it praise from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Prayagraj also received a special award for its innovative and sustainable sanitation model ahead of Swachh Mahakumbh 2025.
Double Delight for Gorakhpur
Gorakhpur celebrated a dual victory in this year’s survey. The city secured third place in the Safaimitra Surakshit Shehar category and fourth place in the 3–10 lakh population category. In addition, it achieved a 5-Star GFC rating, reflecting a leap in both sanitation management and the welfare of sanitation workers.
Agra Emerges as a Rising Star
Agra was declared Uttar Pradesh’s fastest emerging clean city, securing the 32nd national rank and earning a 5-Star GFC rating. The city has made significant improvements in public sanitation infrastructure, solid waste processing, and citizen participation.
Other Cities Make Their Mark
Moradabad ranked 10th nationally in the 3–10 lakh population category, while Bijnor and Shamshabad achieved 29th and 95th ranks, respectively, in the medium-town category. These rankings reflect the consistent and wide-ranging efforts being made across cities of all sizes in the state.
Mahakumbh 2025 Sanitation Plan Honoured
The Swachh Mahakumbh 2025 Award was bestowed upon Uttar Pradesh for its innovative approach in planning large-scale sanitation during cultural festivals. The award acknowledges the balance the state has struck between heritage preservation and modern sanitation standards.
Government’s Vision Backed by Collective Effort
Urban Development Minister AK Sharma credited the achievement to the combined efforts of citizens, municipal workers, and local governing bodies. He stated, “The historic GFC rating for Lucknow, recognition for Prayagraj and Gorakhpur, and the rapid progress in cities like Agra are outcomes of an integrated and inclusive approach towards urban cleanliness.”
He reiterated that the government is committed to making Uttar Pradesh the cleanest state in India, adding that Swachh Survekshan 2024–25 has laid a strong foundation for the journey ahead.
Systematic Monitoring, Training Behind Success
Principal Secretary of the Urban Development Department emphasized that the state’s performance was a result of rigorous monitoring, targeted training, and effective supervision. The state’s consistent progress in GFC certification, ODF++ (Open Defecation Free Plus Plus), and Water+ categories has placed it on a transformational urban sanitation trajectory.
He noted that the Swachh Survekshan 2024–25 is not an end but a milestone in Uttar Pradesh’s goal to lead India in sustainable urban hygiene and sanitation practices.
Key Highlights from Swachh Survekshan 2024–25 for Uttar Pradesh:
- Lucknow: Third Cleanest Metro City | 7-Star GFC | Presidential Award
- Prayagraj: Cleanest Ganga City | Swachh Mahakumbh 2025 Award
- Gorakhpur: 3rd in Safaimitra Category | 4th in 3–10 lakh Population Cities | 5-Star GFC
- Agra: Fastest Emerging Clean City | 32nd National Rank | 5-Star GFC
- Moradabad: 10th Rank in 3–10 lakh Category
- Bijnor and Shamshabad: Strong showings in Medium Town Category
As Uttar Pradesh continues its march towards cleaner, healthier cities, Swachh Survekshan 2024–25 has reaffirmed its place as a national frontrunner in urban sanitation excellence.
