Vijayawada Division kicks off Swachhata Abhiyan with Enthusiastic Launch at Vijayawada Railway Station

The Vijayawada Division of South Central Railway marked the commencement of the Swachhata Abhiyan at Vijayawada Railway Station on 1st August 2025 with an energetic, inclusive, and inspiring launch event aimed at fostering a culture of cleanliness and environmental awareness.

The event began with Shri Mohit Sonakiya, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Vijayawada Division, South Central Railway administering the Swachhata Pledge to railway officials, staff, Bharat Scouts & Guides, and sanitation workers, reinforcing the collective responsibility towards cleanliness in railway premises and beyond.

“Cleanliness is not a one-time initiative, but a continuous commitment. At Vijayawada Division, we are determined to integrate Swachhata into every aspect of our railway operations and make it a way of life,” said Shri Mohit Sonakiya, DRM. “This campaign is about more than cleaning our stations; it’s about creating awareness and instilling pride in our surroundings.”

A Sapling Plantation Drive followed the pledge ceremony near the station’s Clock Tower. Led by Shri Mohit Sonakiya, DRM, the initiative showcased the Division’s resolve to expand green cover and improve the station’s environmental aesthetics.

“Sustainable infrastructure begins with conscious action,” noted Shri P E Edwin, ADRM (Infrastructure), Vijayawada Division, SCR. “Our focus is not just on building efficient railway systems, but also on nurturing a healthy environment for future generations.”

In a bid to raise public consciousness, a Prabhat Pheri was organised with participants marching across the station and circulating area, waving banners and chanting slogans promoting sanitation and eco-awareness. Adding a cultural highlight, a lively Nukkad Natak was performed by the Bharat Scouts and Guides. Through street theatre, they emphasised themes of personal hygiene, public sanitation, and collective responsibility in keeping communal spaces clean.

The programme, meticulously organised by the Environment and Housekeeping Management (EnHM) Department, received enthusiastic participation from multiple railway departments, further reflecting Vijayawada Division’s unified front in advancing the Swachh Bharat Mission.

“This is not the end, but the beginning of a continuous campaign,” added Shri Sonakiya, DRM,
“We will persist with such initiatives, engage more people, and lead by example.” The DRM commended Shri M Vamsikanth, Sr.DEnHM and his team for organising this programme meticulously.

The event started with a shared pledge by all participants to carry forward the message of cleanliness in their daily lives and professional responsibilities. Branch Officers, Staff, Volunteers, Bharat Scouts and Guides participated to make the event a grand success.

SCR BZA PR No.78
Date: 1st August 2025