Swachh Survekshan 2024-25: Bathinda Punjab’s ‘cleanest city’, bags 51st rank nationally
After a gap of two years, Bathinda has reclaimed its title as the ‘cleanest city’ in Punjab under the Swachh Survekshan 2024, conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India.
The city has secured the first position in the state and the 51st position at the national level in the population category of 50,000 to 3 lakh.
Bathinda Municipal Corporation scored a total of 9,824 out of 12,500 points in this year’s cleanliness survey. The city earned 8,124 marks out of 10,000 in the field survey alone, with 98% success in door-to-door garbage collection and 100% in solid waste processing. The city’s efforts were recognised at the national-level where Bathinda Commissioner Kanchan Singla received the award from Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar during a ceremony held in Delhi.
From 2018 to 2020, Bathinda had consistently ranked first in Punjab in the Swachh Survekshan rankings, but the city had seen a decline in the past three years due to various operational challenges. This year, however, Bathinda made a strong comeback by bridging those gaps and regaining its top position in the state.
The survey results showed impressive performance across several categories. Bathinda scored 1,700 out of 2,500 in certification, achieved 98% in garbage collection, 55% in waste segregation, 99% in processing of residual waste and 100% in the cleanliness of residential and commercial areas. Additionally, the city was awarded full marks for sewage water treatment and cleaning of natural water bodies. However, the score for public toilet maintenance remained at 67%, indicating the need for further improvement in sanitation infrastructure.
A major factor behind the city’s success was Punjab’s first solid waste processing plant, established in Bathinda at a cost of ₹30 crore. This facility processes around 120 tonnes of waste daily and produces compost and RDF (refuse-derived fuel), ensuring that 100% of daily waste is properly managed. The longstanding issue of old waste lying at the dumping ground was also addressed this year, which significantly contributed to the improved ranking.
This year’s Swachh Survekshan emphasized infrastructure, public awareness, garbage management systems and beautification efforts. In 2023, Bathinda had ranked 121st nationally and 4th in Punjab. With its renewed commitment, the city has not only climbed up to the 51st position in India, but has also entered the Swachh Super League.
Speaking on the achievement, Bathinda Municipal Corporation Commissioner Kanchan Singla congratulated the people of Bathinda and acknowledged the tireless efforts of the municipal staff and sanitation workers. She stated that this accomplishment reflects strong teamwork and the collective spirit of the people, expressing hope that residents will continue to support efforts to keep Bathinda at the top in future as well.
Bathinda