Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao initiative
Context:
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has recently, launched the “Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao” (SABB) initiative under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 (SBM-U 2.0).
Relevance:
GS-02 (Government policies and interventions)
Key Highlights:
- The Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao initiative was rolled out by MoHUA to run from 1st July to 31st August 2024. This initiative aims to enhance the preparedness of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to manage the challenges posed by heavy rainfall and heightened health risks during the monsoon season (June to August).
- Aligning with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s ‘STOP Diarrhoea Campaign,’ the initiative addresses the multifaceted challenges of cleanliness and disease prevention during the monsoon. It promotes a comprehensive approach to cleanliness and sanitation within ULBs.
Key Features of the Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao Campaign:
- Special Cleanliness Drives: Organized to ensure thorough cleaning and sanitation in urban areas.
- Waste Collection and Transportation: Emphasizing efficient management of waste collection and transportation.
- Public Toilets Maintenance: Regular cleaning and upkeep of community and public toilets.
- Child Sanitation and Hygiene: Provision of adequate sanitation and hygiene facilities for children.
- Water Quality Sampling: Ensuring the sampling and monitoring of water quality to provide safe drinking water.
- Water Works Maintenance: Maintenance of water infrastructure and systems.
- IEC and Door-to-Door Mobilization: Planning for Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities and mobilizing communities door-to-door.
- Rapid Assessments: Conducting rapid assessments to identify high-risk areas.
- Protect Prevent Treat Strategy (PPTS): Adoption of PPTS for effective disease prevention and management.
- Coordination and Monitoring: Emphasis on community involvement, public awareness, and coordination for effective implementation.
- Community Engagement and Education: Fostering community engagement and education on hygiene and sanitation practices.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Promoting rainwater harvesting practices.
- Post-Monsoon Maintenance Planning: Planning and integration of post-monsoon maintenance activities.
Conclusion:
The SABB initiative underscores the importance of community involvement and public awareness in addressing sanitation challenges, especially during the monsoon season, contributing to the broader objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission.
