Cultural Fest and 'Waste to Art' Exhibition organized at Vijayawada Division, South Central Railway as part of Swachhotsav – Swachhata Hi Seva 2025

As part of the nationwide Swachhata Hi Seva – 2025 campaign, Vijayawada Division of South Central Railway organized a vibrant Cultural Fest and Waste to Art Exhibition on 27th September 2025 at Railway Auditorium, Vijayawada. The programme highlighted the message of “Waste to Art” through creativity, performance, and community participation. The event witnessed enthusiastic involvement from school children, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and various railway units, all of whom showcased their talent and commitment towards cleanliness and environmental protection.

The programme was graced by Shri Mohit Sonakiya, Divisional Railway Manager, Vijayawada, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Srinivas Rao Konda, Additional Divisional Railway Manager (Operations), as the Guest of Honour. Both dignitaries interacted with the participants and appreciated their efforts in spreading the message of Swachhata.

A total of 120 students from three schools — PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1, ICON Public School, and Jack and Jill English Medium School — participated with great enthusiasm. Along with them, 50 members of Bharat Scouts and Guides, including cubs and bulbuls, added colour and spirit to the event with their active participation.

The cultural segment of the programme featured an energetic dance performance by ICON Public School, followed by Bharat Scouts and Guides who staged a dance on Swachhata and an impactful drama on keeping the environment clean and saving the planet through good habits. These performances conveyed a strong message of responsibility and collective action in ensuring a clean and green India.

The Waste to Art Exhibition drew much appreciation as students showcased innovative works created from discarded materials. Their creativity turned waste into inspiring artistic expressions, reflecting the philosophy of sustainability. Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1 won the First Prize, while ICON Public School secured both Second and Third Prizes in the competition.

Adding to the grandeur, Diesel Loco Shed (DLS), Vijayawada, displayed a magnificent collection of large-scale models made entirely from scrap material, including a Vande Bharat train model, a life-size horse, the iconic Godavari Railway Bridge, and the Krishna Bridge. Similarly, the Kakinada Carriage and Wagon Workshop Depot showcased intricate artworks such as a Charkha, Peacock, Cat, and other creative models crafted from railway scrap, earning wide praise from visitors for their innovation and craftsmanship.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Mohit Sonakiya, DRM, Vijayawada, commended the enthusiastic participation of school children and their awareness towards environmental issues. He said, “The participation of young students in this exhibition reflects their awareness and commitment to environmental responsibility. Their efforts inspire us to believe that the next generation will carry forward the message of sustainability and cleanliness with even greater strength.”

Shri Srinivas Rao Konda, ADRM (Op), Vijayawada, stressed the importance of continuous public involvement in cleanliness drives. He remarked, “Cleanliness should not be limited to campaign periods alone. It must become a daily habit for all citizens. Only then can we truly transform our surroundings into clean, green, and beautiful spaces.”

The event concluded with a call to action for everyone to uphold the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle and to contribute actively towards making the division and the nation clean and sustainable.

SCR BZA PR No.114

Date: 27th September 2025