Excelsior Correspondent
MANSAR, Sept 24: Director Rural Sanitation, Charandeep Singh, led a spirited crowd of over 2500 locals in a ‘Swachhathon’ run at the historic Mansar Lake here today.
This event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of sanitation and showcased Jammu & Kashmir’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage through sustainable sanitation practices in rural areas.
Nestled amidst scenic beauty and lush green hills, Mansar Lake has been a popular tourist destination for years. However, the increasing tourist footfall and a lack of awareness regarding sustainable sanitation practices have raised environmental concerns.
Charandeep Singh, along with several dignitaries including Juhi Pathania, Vice Chairperson DDC Udhampur, Advocate Amit Sharma, DDC Majalta, Captain Dina Nath, BDC Chairman, Deputy Director Sanna Khan, and others, led the “Swachhathon” run covering a distance of more than 4 kilometers around Mansar Lake.
Participants of all ages, from senior citizens to youngsters, joined with a shared purpose – promoting sustainable sanitation practices and protecting Mansar Lake.
Before the run, Charandeep Singh emphasized the importance of responsible waste management, water conservation, and cleanliness in public spaces.
He stated, “We have a collective responsibility to ensure a clean and sustainable future for Jammu & Kashmir. Through initiatives like this run and subsequent sanitation drives, we can inspire positive change and encourage everyone to adopt eco-friendly habits.”
During the event, he highlighted the significance of responsible tourism and sanitation in preserving the region’s natural treasures.
He stressed the need for proper waste disposal, cleanliness, and educating tourists to ensure that Mansar Lake remains a symbol of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Participants also took a swachhata pledge to continue practicing good sanitation habits and educating others about their importance in maintaining clean surroundings.
As part of the event, participants engaged in a cleanup drive, collecting litter and plastic waste along the run route. This hands-on approach showcased the immediate impact of collective action on the area’s cleanliness. Young volunteers who collected the most garbage were rewarded with cash prizes on the spot.
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