Lucknow is among top three cities of India. It ranks third in the country

Historic Achievement for Uttar Pradesh in cleanliness  Survey 2024

Lucknow is among top three cities of India. It ranks third in the country

Prayagraj receives national honour for Maha Kumbh 2025

Agra, Noida and Gorakhpur also recognized for excellence in cleanliness

Uttar Pradesh has achieved a remarkable milestone in the cleanliness Survey 2024, conducted by the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India. 

For the first time, the state capital Lucknow has secured top place nationally for urban cleanliness and ranks third in national ranking an unprecedented feat for any city in the country.

In another major accolade, Prayagraj has received the National Award in the Special Category for its outstanding cleanliness management during Maha Kumbh 2025, the world’s largest religious gathering, attended by over 66 crore devotees.

Urban Development and Energy Minister Shri A.K. Sharma credited this success to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and continued support of Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath. 

Under the mantra of 'Swachhata Hi Seva' given by the Prime Minister and the effective leadership of the Chief Minister, the state has witnessed unprecedented improvements in urban sanitation and infrastructure.

Ak Sharma said that Sanitation workers begin their duties as early as 5 AM, and activities are closely monitored via a technology-enabled Dedicated Command and Control Center (DCCC). 

He further said that this national recognition, of an event as massive as Maha Kumbh, reflects global acknowledgment of our efforts led by our cleanliness workers."

Cleanliness Initiatives during Maha Kumbh 2025

100% Solid Waste Management – Maha Kumbh Nagar declared garbage and plastic-free.
Advanced River Cleaning Technologies– Use of river screamers, floating barriers, and more for cleaning the Ganga.
Bio-CNG Plants – Clean energy production from organic waste under the PPP model.
Mass Ghat Cleaning Drive – Over 15,000 volunteers participated, setting a Guinness World Record.
30,000 Miyawaki Trees Planted – Boosting green cover and sustainability.

Public Engagement– Cleanliness-themed murals, art exhibitions, and awareness drives throughout the city.
Ban on Single-Use Plastics– Promoting eco-friendly alternatives.
Beautification Drives– Special focus on public spaces and heritage areas.

Minister Sharma’s On-Ground Supervision

To maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, Minister A.K. Sharma personally camped in Maha Kumbh Nagar and supervised operations across multiple sectors. His on-foot inspections and direct involvement helped implement an effective and inspiring model of sanitation, widely appreciated by foreign tourists, travel writers, and devotees alike.

A Collective Victory for Uttar Pradesh

 "This achievement is the result of the collective participation of government agencies, local bodies, sanitation workers, volunteers, and every conscientious citizen.I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every Karmveer of the Swachhata Abhiyan. With this spirit, Uttar Pradesh is poised to remain a national leader in cleanliness and urban development, said Ak Sharma.