Kerala has truly outdone itself in the Swachh Survekshan 2024 rankings, demonstrating an inspiring commitment to urban cleanliness and waste management. This year, the state has witnessed a monumental shift, with a staggering 82 municipalities making it into the list of India’s 1,000 best-performing towns. This is a remarkable achievement, especially when compared to previous editions where not a single municipality from Kerala featured in the top 100. This upward trajectory underscores a concerted effort by local bodies and citizens alike, proving that sustained focus on sanitation can yield significant results.
Leading the charge for the state is Kochi Corporation, which has made an impressive leap from the 400s to secure a commendable 50th rank nationally, emerging as Kerala’s cleanest city. This drastic improvement highlights the effectiveness of enhanced waste management practices and dedicated sanitation initiatives. Beyond Kochi, seven other urban bodies have earned their spot among India’s top 100 cleanest towns: Mattannur, Thrissur Corporation, Kozhikode, Alappuzha Municipality, Guruvayur Municipality, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kollam Corporations. Mattannur also received special recognition as a “Promising Swachh Shehar,” signaling its immense potential for future advancements.
The success story extends beyond just rankings. Twenty-three municipalities in Kerala have proudly received star ratings under the garbage-free city framework, with three towns achieving a 3-star rating and twenty earning a 1-star rating. These ratings are a testament to tangible improvements in waste processing capabilities, sanitation systems, and overall urban beautification, all evaluated through rigorous inspections and valuable citizen feedback. Kerala’s impressive performance in Swachh Survekshan 2024 is a clear indicator of a positive shift in its approach to urban cleanliness, paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future for its residents.
