Need public support for battle against litter: MCC Commissioner M.K. Savitha

Mysuru: Cleanliness has been a major challenge during Dasara, with thousands of visitors thronging the city for the festivities.

The Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) has deployed over 2,000 sanitation workers and officials to keep the city clean, with cleaning drives carried out daily at key venues, roads and circles.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, MCC Commissioner M.K. Savitha explained the arrangements made to manage the additional waste generated, including staff deployment, garbage collection and disposal.

“Before Dasara, maintaining cleanliness and ensuring proper waste disposal were major challenges. During the festivities, we have to ensure sanitation at all venues. Though the responsibility is enormous, we have made necessary arrangements to manage the work,” she added.

Over 2,000 staff deployed

More than 2,000 sanitation workers and officials have been deployed. The MCC already has over 1,500 permanent and outsourced workers, besides 300 temporary personnel.

While some venues have their own cleaning arrangements, the MCC takes care of garbage collection and disposal. At major attractions, including the Aahara Mela and Flower Show, the MCC has deployed workers and vehicles to clear the waste generated by visitors.

Cleaning in three shifts

Preparations began well before the Dasara inauguration. The city was divided into four packages, with cleaning work carried out in three shifts. “By 11.45 pm every day, cleaning at all venues, major roads and circles is completed,” Savitha said.

Garbage generation has increased by nearly 10 percent compared to normal days, with the Aahara Mela accounting for a substantial share of the waste.

Littering remains a concern

Getting people to follow basic cleanliness practices remains a major challenge, Savitha said. “Despite repeated appeals, people continue to litter even when dustbins are placed nearby,” she noted.

To encourage public participation, the MCC has launched a ‘Swachh Dasara reels contest’ on social media. Cash prizes will be presented to the winners at the Aahara Mela on Oct. 21.

Savitha appealed to citizens to cooperate with the Corporation and help keep the city clean. “If Mysuru’s citizens make cleanliness a priority and cooperate with us, we can truly celebrate a successful Swachh Dasara,” she said.