The Andhra Pradesh government has announced the launch of an intensive cleanliness campaign, titled Operation Clean Sweep, across all 123 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) from May 23 to June 20. The move aims to improve urban sanitation and strengthen solid waste management practices.

Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar on Thursday said that the four-week drive is intended to convert growing public participation under the ‘Swarna Andhra–Swachh Andhra’ (SASA) programme into visible improvements in cleanliness across urban areas.

The officials said the initiative seeks to institutionalise cleanliness as a daily civic responsibility while adopting a mission-mode approach to sanitation.

The campaign has been structured in phases, each targeting specific sanitation goals. During the first week, the authorities will focus on removing garbage black spots and improving cleanliness on roads and at public places.

The second week will prioritise desilting storm water drains, nallas and cleaning backlanes to prevent water stagnation ahead of the monsoon season.

In the third phase, emphasis will be laid on segregation of waste at source and ensuring compliance among bulk waste generators, including hotels, markets and institutions.

The final week will focus on cleaning of public toilets and elimination of garbage vulnerable points.

The Collectors will supervise the implementation of the drive in districts, while the Municipal Commissioners will oversee the execution at the city level through daily monitoring and geo-tagged reporting systems.

Mr. Suresh Kumar said the initiative represents a shift from routine sanitation work to an outcome-oriented mission, aimed at improving cleanliness and promoting sustained behavioural change among citizens.