After ensuring the smooth conduct of the mammoth 12 day Maha Godavari Pushkaralu, which concluded on Saturday, the police and revenue officials have initiated a sanitation drive — “Swach Bhadrachalam” — to remove the mounds of garbage which has accumulated in many parts of Bhadrachalam and clean up the temple town.
Several officials across government departments led by Bhadrachalam ASP R. Bhaskaran and RDO Anjaiah supervised the removal of the accumulated garbage in the areas surrounding the Karakatta (Flood Bank) and the temple complex on Sunday.
Private sanitation workers cleared mounds of trash including coconut shells, used water and food packets discarded by the several thousand pilgrims who visited the temple town for the river festival..
Epidemic threat The special drive has been launched to avert the outbreak of epidemics, with reports of a spurt in water-borne diseases.
Sources said the officials had barred entry to the bathing ghats during the sanitation drive. The drive is likely to be taken up in the remaining parts of the temple town on Monday, official sources said.
Meanwhile, Collector K. Ilambarithi gave away appreciation certificates to the officials of various government departments for their services during the 12-day fete.
The Collector presented new clothes to the private sanitation workers in recognition of their crucial services during the pushkaralu.
Superintendent of Police Shahnawaz Qasim and others were present.
