TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 12, 2025: Chhattisgarh is making significant strides in realizing the vision of the Swachh Bharat Mission, initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2014. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized that the widespread awareness about cleanliness and the construction of millions of toilets across the state are helping move Chhattisgarh closer to becoming an ODF Plus (Open Defecation Free Plus) model state.
On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai flagged off 10 de-sludge vehicles aimed at further strengthening sanitation systems in rural areas. These vehicles will be used to safely remove and dispose of waste from toilets in villages, playing a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of diseases caused by improper waste disposal.
Addressing the event, the Chief Minister highlighted that 5 districts, 58 development blocks, and more than 16,000 villages in the state have already achieved ODF Plus status. He reiterated the importance of cleanliness as not only a goal but a lifestyle that contributes to both personal and national development.
In a bid to further enhance sanitation efforts, the state government is also establishing fecal sludge treatment plants to better manage waste and protect the environment. These plants will treat waste from septic tanks, and households can request de-sludge services for a nominal fee. So far, 19 such treatment plants have been set up across the state.
Sarpanchs Play Key Role in Village Development
During the ceremony, Chief Minister Shri Sai also discussed the crucial role of Gram Panchayats in village development, sharing his personal experience as a former Panch and Sarpanch. He stressed that alert and responsible leadership at the grassroots level can significantly accelerate the development process.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma also spoke about the positive impact of de-sludge vehicles in rural areas and the state government’s continued commitment to implementing cleanliness programs on a large scale.
Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) has been a cornerstone of Chhattisgarh’s development strategy. In its first phase, the state built over 32 lakh toilets, achieving the national target ahead of schedule. Now, under phase two, Chhattisgarh is on track to become a model ODF Plus state, setting a benchmark for other regions.
The event also saw the Chief Minister handing over de-sludge vehicles to Gram Panchayats in 10 districts, including Mahasamund, Raipur, Kabirdham, and Durg. Prominent figures like MLA Guru Khuswant Saheb, Principal Secretary Mrs. Niharika Barik Singh, and other officials attended the event, reflecting the state’s commitment to achieving its cleanliness and development goals.
