For an incredible eight consecutive years, the charming city of Indore in India has proudly held the title of the country’s cleanest city! This remarkable achievement is the result of a dedicated community effort focused on enhancing and maintaining hygiene standards throughout the city.

In a delightful account shared with the Guardian by Amrit Dhillon, Indore's journey to cleanliness is a testament to the power of collective action. Once known for its litter, the city transformed itself through the commitment of its residents, who decided they deserved better.

Nitisha Agarwal, a corporate executive who frequently visits Indore, expressed her amazement: “When you come out of the airport, it feels as though you aren’t in India, it’s so clean.” This sentiment reflects the pride and joy that the citizens feel about their city’s transformation.

Indore’s remarkable turnaround began when the community reached a tipping point, determined to change their surroundings. Gone are the days when animals rummaged through unsightly garbage piles. Today, the city boasts a dedicated team of 850 street sweepers who diligently clean the streets every night. The cheerful sounds of garbage trucks equipped with jingles—similar to those of an ice cream van—signal to residents that it’s time to bring out their meticulously sorted waste, including electronic, wet, plastic, and biomedical materials.

With the help of technology, municipal workers monitor each garbage truck through GPS, ensuring that no corners are cut in this essential service. Colorful bins line even the smallest streets, and CCTV cameras help to encourage responsible behavior among residents.

Once collected, the waste is responsibly disposed of, composted, or even converted into fuel, with some restaurants taking the initiative to maintain their own composting systems. This holistic approach has led to a truly transformative impact on the city, and the credit belongs primarily to the people of Indore, whose civic pride and enthusiasm inspire others to join the movement.

Prabhnit Sawhney, a local petrol pump owner, highlights the importance of community involvement: “You need a willing public, a determined government, and very energetic, proactive individuals to keep up the momentum.” He has witnessed countless residents stopping their cars to pick up litter, showcasing the collective spirit that drives change.

Let’s celebrate this inspiring story and share it with friends who may have a different image of India, reminding them of the positive changes taking place in communities like Indore!