Sat Feb 14 13:30:25 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Visakhapatnam Ramps Up Sanitation Efforts Ahead of Swachh Survekshan 2026 Assessment

The Story:

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) is intensifying preparations for the Swachh Survekshan 2026, a nationwide cleanliness survey, as a central assessment team is scheduled to visit the city in March 2026. The inspection will evaluate various aspects of urban sanitation, including waste management, public toilet maintenance, and citizen awareness. Despite increased efforts, challenges persist, including deteriorating sanitation standards in some wards, operational issues at the Gajuwaka garbage transfer station, and a shortage of sanitation staff.

The GVMC Commissioner, Ketan Garg, acknowledged the concerns and assured that immediate steps are being taken to address the identified gaps. This includes the recent approval for the appointment of approximately 250 sanitation workers.

Key Points:

  • The GVMC is preparing for the Swachh Survekshan 2026 assessment in March 2026.
  • The survey carries a total of 12,500 marks, with weightage given to parameters like Certification, Open Defecation Free (ODF) certification and Garbage Free City (GFC) ratings, Citizen Feedback.
  • The assessment team will evaluate cleanliness, waste management, and public awareness.
  • Challenges include deteriorated sanitation standards in some wards, operational issues at the Gajuwaka garbage transfer station, and a shortage of sanitation staff.
  • GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg assured that immediate steps are being taken to address these issues, including hiring nearly 250 sanitation workers.

Key Takeaways:

  • The GVMC is under pressure to improve sanitation standards ahead of the Swachh Survekshan 2026.
  • The success of the GVMC in the survey hinges on addressing current sanitation challenges.
  • Citizen feedback and awareness will be crucial factors in the overall assessment.
  • The GVMC acknowledges current shortcomings in its sanitation infrastructure.
  • The recent approval for additional sanitation workers indicates a proactive response to the identified staff shortage.

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