Jharkhand shines in Swachh Survekshan 2024-25: Bundu named promising city, Jamshedpur bags third spot

Jharkhand continues to make its mark in urban sanitation as two of its cities—Jamshedpur and Bundu—were honoured under the Swachh Survekshan 2024-25 awards announced in New Delhi on Thursday. President Droupadi Murmu felicitated the winning cities at a national ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan in the presence of Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister of State Tokhan Sahu, and Secretary Srinivas Katikithala.

Jamshedpur secured the third position among cities with a population between 3 and 10 lakhs, while Bundu was declared Jharkhand’s Promising Swachh City. Both cities were lauded for their consistent efforts in improving sanitation and urban cleanliness.

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President Murmu, along with the dignitaries, extended congratulations to the people of Jharkhand, particularly the residents of Jamshedpur and Bundu, for their exemplary work in the field of sanitation. The accolades are seen as a reflection of the state’s growing commitment to cleanliness.

Jamshedpur also earned a place among India’s five-star rated cities for cleanliness. Meanwhile, Deoghar, Jugsalai, and Chakulia were awarded One-Star Ratings, and Jamshedpur was listed in the Water Plus category, acknowledging its efforts in wastewater management. Additionally, Bundu, Chirkunda, Rajmahal, Sahebganj, and Deoghar were placed in the ODF++ category, signifying high standards in open defecation free practices.

Reflecting on Jharkhand’s progress, officials noted that the state’s performance in the 2016 Swachh Survekshan was not very encouraging. However, with sustained focus and public participation, it has secured accolades in every edition since 2017. This year’s recognition is being credited to the strong leadership of the Chief Minister, guidance from Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar, and the dedication of sanitation workers.

Principal Secretary of the Urban Development and Housing Department, Sunil Kumar, hailed the achievement and called for even better performance in future surveys. He has also directed all municipal bodies to prioritise cleanliness in their operations. Kumar received the awards on behalf of the state, accompanied by Suraj Kumar, Director of the State Urban Development Agency (SUDA); Krishna Kumar, Special Officer of the Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee; and representatives of the Bundu Nagar Panchayat.

Officials emphasised that these recognitions are not only a matter of pride but a responsibility to continue improving urban sanitation across the state.