Mumbai Embraces ‘Health at Your Doorstep’ Initiative Post Successful Deep Cleanliness Mission

Mumbai, 14th January 2024: The intensive cleanliness drive over the past two months has yielded significant reductions in air pollution levels across Mumbai. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde attributes this achievement to the collaborative efforts of the entire BMC system, sanitation workers, local citizens, school students, and social service organizations actively participating in the sanitation campaign.

Building on the success of the Deep Cleanliness Mission, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the launch of the ‘Arogya Aaplya Dari’ campaign for the citizens of Mumbai. This health-focused initiative aims to bring healthcare services directly to the doorsteps of the people, ensuring their well-being.

Chief Minister Shinde took a hands-on approach during a six-hour tour from 8 am to 2 pm, actively participating in the Deep Cleanliness Mission in the western suburbs. His direct involvement included inspecting cleanliness works and interacting with sanitation workers, school students, and citizens at various locations.

The campaign witnessed the presence of dignitaries such as MP Gopal Shetty, MLAs Prakash Surve, Atul Bhatkhalkar, Rajhans Singh, BMC Commissioner Dr Iqbal Singh Chahal, and Additional BMC Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Dr Sudhakar Shinde, among others.

Chief Minister Shinde initiated the campaign by cleaning a traffic island in Dahisar East, emphasizing the need to clean roads, footpaths, and public walls. He interacted with school students participating in a painting competition and expressed the need for a recreation centre for senior citizens.

The ‘Arogya Aaplya Dari’ initiative will involve health workers from BMC visiting every household in Mumbai for health checks. These workers will guide residents on necessary medical tests and provide advice for further treatment. Separate departments for senior citizens in BMC hospitals were also directed to reduce waiting times.

Chief Minister Shinde inaugurated various projects in Malad, including the Anandwadi Hospital, a small fire station, and the beautification of Shardabai Govind Pawar Garden. The park spread over 5 acres, will feature a jogging track, cultural hall, play area for children, study area for students, and amenities for senior citizens.

Highlighting the success of Maharashtra in the central government’s cleanliness survey, Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the ongoing Deep Clean Drive in Mumbai. The campaign involves washing and cleaning roads, squares, footpaths, and public toilets, along with initiatives like Urban Forest creation and bamboo plantation for environmental balance.

Chief Minister Shinde reiterated the state government’s commitment to the health of Mumbaikars, mentioning the ‘Zero Prescription’ policy in BMC hospitals. The ‘Arogya Aaplya Dari’ initiative takes healthcare a step further by ensuring health checks for every resident, guiding necessary tests, and providing prompt medical attention.

The day also witnessed the inauguration of Anandwadi Hospital, a fire station, and the groundbreaking of park development, showcasing the commitment of the government towards enhancing healthcare infrastructure and public spaces in Mumbai.