Which among these cities have been declared as India's first 'water plus' certified city, under the Swachh Survekshan 2021?
VerifiedAnswer: Indore
Explanation:
Indore, the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh, achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming India's first 'Water Plus' certified city under the Swachh Survekshan 2021. This prestigious certification recognizes cities that have successfully implemented comprehensive water management systems and achieved excellence in both water supply and wastewater treatment.
The 'Water Plus' certification is awarded to cities that demonstrate exceptional performance in water management practices. To qualify for this certification, cities must meet stringent criteria including 100% treatment of wastewater, proper management of septage and fecal sludge, and ensuring that no untreated water is discharged into the environment. Indore successfully met all these requirements, showcasing its commitment to sustainable urban development.
Indore's achievement in water management is particularly noteworthy because it builds upon the city's previous success in waste management. The city had already established itself as India's cleanest city for several consecutive years in the Swachh Survekshan rankings. This consistent performance in cleanliness initiatives provided a strong foundation for expanding into comprehensive water management systems.
The Swachh Survekshan is an annual cleanliness survey conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India. It evaluates cities across various parameters including solid waste management, water management, sanitation facilities, and citizen participation. The introduction of the 'Water Plus' category represents the government's recognition that comprehensive urban cleanliness must include effective water and wastewater management alongside solid waste management.
Indore's success story serves as an inspiring model for other Indian cities. The city's integrated approach to urban management, combining solid waste management with water treatment systems, demonstrates how systematic planning and implementation can lead to sustainable urban development. This achievement also highlights the importance of local governance and community participation in creating cleaner, more livable cities across India.
