In an inspiring example of grassroots governance and swift administrative action, IAS officer Dr Anjali Garg has transformed the sanitation landscape of Panchrukhi block in just 40 days, proving how focused leadership can deliver visible change on the ground.
When Dr Garg took charge, Panchrukhi was grappling with poor waste management, open dumping, clogged drains, and low public awareness about hygiene. Sanitation infrastructure existed largely on paper, while implementation remained weak. What followed was a time-bound, people-centric intervention that has now become a model for rural sanitation reform.
Mission-Mode Approach to Cleanliness
Dr Garg launched a mission-style sanitation drive with clearly defined goals: 100% waste segregation, elimination of open dumping, and community participation. Instead of relying solely on official machinery, she brought together panchayat members, self-help groups, sanitation workers, and local volunteers, creating a shared sense of responsibility.
Door-to-door awareness campaigns were conducted to educate residents about dry and wet waste segregation. Dustbins were distributed, collection schedules were streamlined, and monitoring was done daily to ensure compliance.
From Paper Plans to Ground Reality
One of the key challenges was ensuring accountability. Dr Garg introduced real-time tracking and surprise inspections, making sure sanitation workers had the tools and support they needed. Non-functional waste collection points were revived, drainage systems were cleaned, and illegal dumping spots were permanently shut down.
Local schools and anganwadi centres were actively involved, turning children into sanitation ambassadors for their families. Cleanliness drives were combined with health awareness sessions, linking hygiene directly to disease prevention.
Visible Results in Record Time
Within 40 days, Panchrukhi witnessed a dramatic transformation. Streets became visibly cleaner, waste segregation improved significantly, and public spaces were reclaimed from garbage. Residents reported reduced foul smell, fewer clogged drains, and improved overall living conditions.
More importantly, the initiative sparked a behavioural shift. Cleanliness was no longer seen as a government task alone but as a shared civic duty.
A Model for Administrative Leadership
Dr Anjali Garg’s work in Panchrukhi stands as a powerful reminder that impactful governance does not always require massive budgets—it requires intent, discipline, and community trust. Her sanitation drive has now drawn attention from other districts looking to replicate the model.
In just 40 days, Panchrukhi’s sanitation story has become a testament to what decisive leadership and people’s participation can achieve together.
