Vijayawada Division Organises Walkathon on Observance of “Swachhata Hi Sewa”

 

As part of the on-going “Swachhata Hi Sewa” Campaign – 2025, the Vijayawada Division of South Central Railway organized a spirited Walkathon on 19th September 2025.

The Walkathon commenced by Shri Mohit Sonakiya, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), where participants reaffirmed their commitment to cleanliness at their workplaces and residences. After commencement, Shri Sonakiya flagged off the Walkathon from the historic Clock Tower near Vijayawada Railway Station, leading the procession with pride and purpose across through Caltex Road and Government Hospital Road, Railway Health Unit road with a length of 1.7 km and finally culminated at origin point. He was joined by Shri Srinivasa Rao Konda, Additional Divisional Railway Manager (Operations), along with all Branch Officers of the division.

In his address to the gathering, Shri Sonakiya reflected on the enduring significance of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, celebrated on 2nd October. He emphasized that the Swachh Bharat Mission, launched in 2014 under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, embodies the Nation’s vision for a clean and self-reliant India. The mission continues to be actively implemented across the country, inspiring citizens to uphold the values of cleanliness and civic responsibility.

Shri Sonakiya urged every citizen and employee to contribute to the goal of a garbage-free nation by refraining from littering and using dustbins responsibly. He called for collective action to realize Gandhi’s dream of a clean India, encouraging everyone to view the Walkathon not just as a physical activity, but as a symbol of our shared journey toward a cleaner and healthier environment.

He further underscored the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and sanitation across all railway stations under the Vijayawada Division. Special drives are being conducted to clean platforms, tracks, waiting halls, and toilets. Passengers are encouraged to use bio-toilets and avoid open defecation. Awareness campaigns are being run to educate travellers about proper waste disposal and the harmful effects of plastic usage. Staff and contractors have been instructed to ensure timely garbage collection and segregation at source.

The Walkathon witnessed enthusiastic participation from nearly 350 railway employees across various departments of Vijayawada Division, along with volunteers from Scouts and Guides, Jack & Jill School, and Kendriya Vidyalaya school (Vijayawada), making the event a grand success.                            

SCR BZA PR No.104
Date: 19th September 2025