GVMC ramps up Swachh Survekshan 2026 push
Civic authorities in Visakhapatnam have intensified sanitation and waste management efforts ahead of Swachh Survekshan 2026, with a central assessment team expected to visit the city in March.
The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) said the review will examine ward-level cleanliness, door-to-door waste collection, segregation of waste at source, drain maintenance, upkeep of public toilets, and the efficiency of waste processing facilities. Public awareness of scientific waste disposal practices will also be assessed. Schools are likely to be included to verify sanitation and waste management systems.
Swachh Survekshan, India’s nationwide cleanliness survey, carries a total of 12,500 marks. Certification, Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, Garbage Free City (GFC) ratings, and citizen feedback form key components of the evaluation.
In preparation, the GVMC has rolled out awareness campaigns promoting segregation at source and responsible disposal practices. Officials said field inspections and monitoring have been stepped up, alongside measures to strengthen sanitation infrastructure.
Yet, challenges remain. Sanitation standards have reportedly slipped in some wards, prompting concerns among elected representatives. Corporators have flagged irregular garbage collection and inadequate segregation. Recent operational disruptions at the garbage transfer station in Gajuwaka have added pressure to waste management services. The corporation is also dealing with a shortage of sanitation workers.
“The GVMC is focusing on priority parameters such as processing legacy waste, strengthening door-to-door collection, monitoring bulk waste generators, and ensuring the effective functioning of the Construction and Demolition waste processing plant,” said Ketan Garg.
Garg acknowledged the concerns and said corrective measures were under way. He added that approval had been given for the recruitment of nearly 250 sanitation workers to address staffing gaps and improve service delivery.