Belapur: The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) conducted a joint cleanliness and health campaign under the ‘Safai Apnao, Bimari Bhagao’ initiative as part of the Swachh Survekshan programme. The drive was carried out by the Health Department and Solid Waste Management Department from July 30 to August 10, under the guidance of NMMC Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde.

The campaign was implemented across the jurisdiction of NMMC’s 26 Urban Health Centres. Mosquito larvae control teams, rodent control staff and sanitation workers from the Solid Waste Management Department worked together to carry out preventive measures and intensive cleanliness activities.

During the drive, various activities were undertaken, including removal of scrap materials, cleaning of surrounding areas, clearing of blocked drains, carrying out minor engineering repairs, anti-larval spraying and rodent control measures in areas affected by rats and mice.

As part of the campaign, 1,23,117 mosquito breeding sites were permanently eliminated. These included discarded tyres, coconut shells, plastic bottles, disposable cups, food containers, broken boxes, thermocol waste, damaged pots, plant trays, unused tanks and other scrap materials that can collect stagnant water and promote mosquito breeding.

NMMC officials appealed to citizens to maintain cleanliness in and around their homes and dispose of waste and scrap materials responsibly. The civic body stated that public participation is essential to keep Navi Mumbai clean, healthy and free from disease risks.

Mayor Sujata Suraj Patil and Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde urged residents to cooperate with civic initiatives and contribute towards maintaining a cleaner city.