New 'Swachalaya Seve' Initiative Aims for Pristine School Sanitation
In a significant step towards improving hygiene standards, the Gopady Srinivasa Rukmini (GSR) Foundation is set to launch the 'Swachalaya Seve' program. Inspired by the national Swachh Bharat mission, this unique initiative is dedicated to maintaining the cleanliness of toilets in 24 government schools located in and around the Koteshwar area of Kundapur.
A Mobile Solution for a Persistent Problem
The cornerstone of this project is a customised vehicle that will be inaugurated on December 11. Sunitha Kulkarni, a spokesperson for the GSR Foundation, explained that a prior survey conducted by the foundation revealed the poor state of school toilets. Recognizing that hygiene is paramount for student well-being, the foundation decided to tackle the challenge of maintenance head-on.
This vehicle, equipped with all necessary cleaning materials and staffed by a driver and a cleaner, will travel year-round to ensure regular upkeep. The plan is for the mobile cleaning unit to visit at least five schools every week, systematically covering all 24 institutions. Kulkarni highlighted that while many organizations build toilets, their long-term maintenance remains a hurdle, making this dedicated service a pioneering effort in the region.
Community Support and Future Vision
The selection of the Koteshwar area is a nod to the roots of the foundation's Managing Director, Gopady Srinivasa Rao, who hails from Gopady village. The initiative has garnered community support, with Eshanya restaurant and Cakewala sponsoring the manpower. The GSR Foundation will cover all other expenses, including vehicle maintenance, staff salaries, and equipment. The schools' responsibility will be limited to providing water, electricity, and a supervisor during the cleaning sessions.
Coinciding with the launch, the foundation is also organizing a talk titled 'Future of India - Challenges and Opportunities' on December 11 at the GSR Auditorium, Koteshwar High School grounds. This event is thoughtfully planned to align with the observance of Human Rights Day, World Mountain Day, and International Universal Health Coverage Day, weaving together the themes of rights, environment, and health.
