Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (Powergrid), Northern Region-II, headquartered in Jammu, is observing Swachhata Pakhwada from May 16 to 31 with a series of awareness and community outreach programmes aimed at promoting cleanliness, environmental sustainability and public health.
The fortnight-long campaign was organised in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of making cleanliness a mass movement and encouraging public participation in Swachhata-related activities. This year marked the 11th consecutive observance of Swachhata Pakhwada by the organisation.
The programme began with the administration of the Swachhata Pledge by Executive Director, Northern Region-II, Tarun Bajaj, to employees at the Regional Headquarters in Jammu. Similar pledge-taking ceremonies were organised across all Powergrid establishments under Northern Region Transmission System-II (NRTS-II).
Addressing employees, Bajaj emphasised the importance of maintaining cleanliness in daily life and urged all staff members to actively participate in initiatives aimed at creating a cleaner and healthier environment.
As part of the campaign, Powergrid launched a radio awareness drive across major FM channels in the region to promote cleanliness and healthy living. Several activities, including shramdaan programmes, signature campaigns, awareness sessions and medical camps, were also organised during the fortnight.
A major public outreach event was held at Trikuta Nagar Sabzi Mandi on Saturday, where a street play (nukkad natak) and a mass awareness campaign were conducted to sensitise people about hygiene and environmental conservation.
With a focus on reducing the use of single-use plastics, Powergrid launched a special campaign encouraging citizens to switch to eco-friendly alternatives. More than 600 cotton and jute bags were distributed among vendors and shoppers at the market. Vegetable and fruit sellers were urged to adopt biodegradable bags as a sustainable alternative to plastic carry bags.
The programme was attended by SK Chowan, Chief General Manager (Projects), Powergrid; Ashutosh K. Sharma, General Manager (HR); and other senior officers and employees of the organisation.
Officials said similar cleanliness and awareness initiatives are being organised at other Powergrid establishments across the region as part of the ongoing Swachhata Pakhwada campaign.
