To promote hygiene, major cleanliness drive launched at Ganderbal’s Gund

Clean environment not just a necessity but collective responsibility: BDO
Ganderbal, Feb 22: In a major attempt to promote public hygiene and to create an awareness, Block Gund in Ganderbal district Central Kashmir, in collaboration with local traders and civil society members Saturday launched a large-scale cleanliness drive. The initiative seeks to address waste management challenges and instil a culture of cleanliness among residents.
The drive, spearheaded by Block Development Officer (BDO) Nazir Ahmad, commenced early in the morning at Gund’s main market. The primary focus of the campaign was the cleaning of Gund Nallah and its adjoining areas, which have been prone to littering and pollution, posing serious environmental and health risks.
Speaking at the launch, BDO Nazir Ahmad underscored the urgent need for maintaining cleanliness and urged residents to adopt proper waste disposal practices. “A clean environment is not just a necessity but a collective responsibility. Improper waste disposal, especially in water bodies and public spaces, has long-term consequences for both public health and the local ecosystem. We must work together to protect our environment and ensure a healthier future for our community,” he stated.
To streamline waste management and reduce indiscriminate dumping, the administration has deployed garbage collection vehicles across the region. Ahmad encouraged locals to make use of these services and avoid littering to help preserve Gund’s natural beauty and ecological balance.
The initiative received an overwhelming response from local traders and civil society members, who actively participated in the drive. Many residents praised the administration’s proactive efforts, pledging their continued support to ensure the long-term success of the campaign.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to environmental conservation and public health and have called on citizens to adopt sustainable waste management habits. The cleanliness drive is expected to be followed by further awareness campaigns, regular inspections, and stricter waste disposal regulations to maintain the momentum of the initiative. With community participation and administrative resolve, Gund is taking a decisive step towards a cleaner, greener, and healthier future.