Sat Jul 19 02:51:49 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The District Collector of Visakhapatnam, M.N. Harendhira Prasad, has instructed government officials to make all government offices plastic-free zones as part of the upcoming ‘Swarnandhra–Swachh Andhra’ program, scheduled for July 19th. He emphasized the need to phase out single-use plastics, highlighting the environmental damage they cause. He also urged officials to participate in cleanliness drives, scheduled for the third Saturday of every month, across various public spaces including government and private offices, educational institutions, religious sites, transportation hubs, hostels, hospitals, Anganwadi centers, and industrial areas. Officials were also instructed to submit photographs and reports of these activities.
**News Article:**
**Visakhapatnam Government Offices to Go Plastic-Free in ‘Swarnandhra-Swachh Andhra’ Push**
*Visakhapatnam, July 19, 2025* – In a move to combat environmental pollution, Visakhapatnam District Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad has mandated that all government offices within the district transition to plastic-free zones. The directive was issued during a video conference with government officials in preparation for the ‘Swarnandhra–Swachh Andhra’ program, scheduled for today, July 19th.
Collector Prasad emphasized the urgent need to eliminate single-use plastics, citing their detrimental impact on water and air quality. He called upon officials to actively participate in achieving a cleaner Andhra Pradesh by implementing strict practices and promoting awareness about the hazards of plastic waste.
“We must act decisively to reduce our reliance on single-use plastics,” stated Collector Prasad. “The environmental consequences are simply too great to ignore.”
As part of the initiative, cleanliness drives will be conducted on the third Saturday of each month across a wide range of public spaces, including government and private offices, educational institutions, temples, churches, mosques, parks, bus and railway stations, hostels, hospitals, Anganwadi centers, and industrial areas. Special attention will be given to maintaining cleanliness at popular tourist destinations.
Officials are required to document their progress by submitting photographs and reports of the cleanliness activities undertaken in their respective departments. The ‘Swarnandhra–Swachh Andhra’ program aims to foster a culture of cleanliness and sustainability across the district, contributing to a healthier environment for all residents.
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