Sun Jun 29 14:39:22 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
District-in-charge Minister Santosh Lad led a massive cleanliness drive in Dharwad, Karnataka, as part of the “My City, Clean City” campaign. Nearly 2,000 people, including government officials from various departments, students, and local residents, participated. The drive involved cleaning streets, sorting garbage, and promoting civic responsibility. Minister Lad emphasized the importance of public cooperation and urged residents to take ownership of their environment. The campaign targeted several key areas across the city and included initiatives like clearing drains, removing garbage from vacant lots, and educating the public on proper waste disposal. Similar campaigns are planned weekly in Hubballi-Dharwad to instill civic sense.
**News Article:**
**Minister Leads Massive Cleanliness Drive in Dharwad**
**Belagavi, June 29, 2025** – Dharwad witnessed a large-scale cleanliness drive today, spearheaded by District-in-charge Minister Santosh Lad, as part of the “My City, Clean City” campaign. Nearly 2,000 people, including government officials, students, and local residents, joined hands to clean streets and promote civic responsibility.
The drive targeted 16 streets across seven wards, focusing on cleaning, sorting, and transporting garbage. Minister Lad emphasized the importance of public participation, urging residents to collaborate with the city corporation and district administration to maintain a clean and green environment.
“It’s crucial that every citizen feels a sense of ownership towards our city,” stated Minister Lad while addressing participants on Mahishi Road. “Only when we feel proud of our surroundings will we be able to create a truly clean city for our children.”
The campaign team visited key locations, including the Railway Station, Malamaddi, and Ramanagara Hospital. Participants used shovels to collect waste, filled baskets, and loaded garbage onto trucks. Minister Lad himself even entered a drain to assist workers in cleaning it, inspiring other officials to join the effort.
Beyond cleaning, the initiative focused on educating the public about proper waste disposal. Minister Lad appealed to residents to segregate waste and urged vegetable vendors not to dump rotten produce in drains or open spaces. The drive also addressed issues such as uncovered manholes and garbage-filled vacant lots.
Students participating in the event carried placards and chanted slogans promoting cleanliness, further raising awareness through songs and street plays.
Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu G.R.J., Superintendent of Police Gopal Byakod, and Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Bhuvanesh Patil were among the senior officials who participated.
The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation plans to conduct similar cleanliness drives weekly to instill a greater sense of civic responsibility among residents.
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