Mysore, nestled in the heart of Karnataka, is often recognised as one of India’s cleanest and greenest cities. Holding the prestigious title of the cleanest city in 2016 under the Swachh Survekshan survey, Mysore has consistently impressed with its commitment to cleanliness and sustainability. But maintaining that status is no small task.
To motivate other urban areas and reinforce its green mission, the city has planned a symbolic candlelight march this Republic Day. Let’s explore how Mysore remains a shining example of sustainable practices.
A Legacy of Cleanliness
Mysore’s commitment to cleanliness is not a new phenomenon. In 2010, the Mysore City Corporation (MCC) launched the Mysore Green City Project, beginning its transformative journey toward sustainability. What makes Mysore unique is not just its policies but also the active dedication of its residents. Together, they’ve tackled urban challenges like waste management, eco-friendly transport, and renewable energy use.
When you visit Mysore, it’s hard not to feel proud of how the city sets the bar high for waste segregation and tree-covered streets. And you’ll see that this commitment isn’t just flashy—it’s deeply rooted in responsible governance and community collaboration.
In 2024, Mysore stepped it up even further by launching the Clean & Green City Mission. This collaborative initiative, supported by Mysore City Corporation and CREDAI, shows how teamwork between the government, organizations, and the very people who live here turns visions into reality. Residents like you and me are at its very core.
The Candlelight March: A Symbol of Change
So, why a candlelight march? This Republic Day, on January 26th, Mysore is doing something truly inspirational. The peaceful march, organized by the Yadavgiri Residents Association, will begin at Jawa Circle, passing through Vivekananda Road, and conclude at Akashwani Circle. If you ever wondered how small steps can lead to big changes.
The march aims to inspire public involvement in maintaining Mysuru’s cleanliness and greenery. The event seeks to drive home the message that keeping the city clean is a shared responsibility, encouraging individuals to monitor cleanliness in their areas and avoid littering. Conveners S.K. Dinesh and Bhamy V. Shenoy emphasize that while the Mysuru City Corporation plays its role, citizens must also reflect on their contributions towards a cleaner city.
We believe symbolism sparks action. This march isn’t just about nostalgia or celebrating a clean Mysore; it’s about igniting a green revolution in urban India. It’s a way to celebrate collective responsibility and inspire every individual to sustainable practices.
Wouldn’t you agree that initiatives like these show the power of community?
Sustainability Practices in Mysore
What makes Mysore, the clean city of India, stand out? It’s the layered, integrated approach to sustainability. Let’s break it down:
- Eco-friendly Transport: Mysore encourages cycling, electric rickshaws, and hybrid buses. These not only cut back carbon emissions but also promote affordable and healthy commuting options. Believe it or not, greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector have reduced by almost 50% here.
- Responsible Waste Management: You can see how Mysore tackles waste at a granular level. Residents diligently segregate waste into wet, dry, and hazardous categories. Composting centres turn organic waste into fertilizers. It’s a model that has reduced landfill dependency by 30%. Doesn’t this sound like something every city should copy?
- Renewable Energy: By having solar panels adorn its government buildings, Mysore sets an example. Solar energy powers 6% of the city’s electricity needs, and here’s the coolest part: residents like you are offered subsidies to bring solar energy home.
- Preserving Green Spaces: Tree-lined roads, public parks, and botanical gardens—look around, and you’ll see nature blends seamlessly with urban life here. It adds to biodiversity and ensures cleaner air for everyone, creating a haven of tranquillity amid city life.
Challenges and Community Involvement
Like anything worthwhile, Mysore’s green journey hasn’t been without challenges. Transitioning people to segregate waste or get involved in green initiatives always takes time and effort. But residents have proved time and again that they’re up for it. Public awareness campaigns and workshops have made all the difference. You can’t help but admire their shared sense of ownership in the city’s sustainable successes. And the beauty? Each citizen feels like an integral part of this.
Facing funding issues, Mysore didn’t just sit around; it found creative solutions. Public-private partnerships and crowdfunding have sustained several projects. That’s the kind of adaptable spirit that keeps this city moving forward.
Be Like Mysore: An Inspiration for Urban India
If Mysore can do it, why can’t other cities? The upcoming candlelight march is an invitation to dream big and think green. It’s not just a Mysore-specific moment; it’s a call for every urban centre in India to rise to the challenge of sustainability.
Imagine your city embracing what Mysore has achieved. Waste segregation, renewable energy, expanded green zones—the possibilities are endless. Let this clean and green city inspire a revolution across the nation. Together, we can make India greener, cleaner, and more harmonious for future generations.
This Republic Day, remember Mysore’s candlelight march and the message it sends: real change starts with you. Small efforts lead to big transformations. Will you join the movement and push for a cleaner, greener tomorrow, just like Mysore?
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
*The views expressed are personal to the author and do not reflect the platform's opinion of the same.
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Author's Bio
Ashwini Devi is a versatile content writer with expertise in SEO, creative, and professional writing across niches like technology, health, and travel. With a strong background in academic writing and brand development, Ashwini excels in crafting impactful content, managing social media, and creating effective strategies to boost engagement and growth.
