In a swift response to concerns raised by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Vijayanagara district administration has launched a major cleanliness drive at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi. Deputy Commissioner Kavitha S Mannikeri led a detailed inspection of the historic monuments and civic facilities, issuing strict directives to officials for immediate improvement.
Inspection Triggered by Minister's Feedback
The action follows Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's visit to Hampi on December 20 and 21. During her stay for a budget-related think tank event, which hosted over 150 senior officials including about 120 IAS officers, she reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the unhygienic conditions at certain locations. A senior official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the minister spoke directly with sanitation workers and tourists to identify shortcomings before conveying her observations to the concerned authorities upon returning to Delhi.
DC Takes Charge, Demands Explanation
Acting on the feedback, Deputy Commissioner Kavitha S Mannikeri conducted a comprehensive inspection on a public holiday, Thursday. She toured key heritage sites, reviewed sanitation arrangements, and issued detailed directions for better upkeep. In a strong follow-up, the DC wrote to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) superintendent, demanding a written explanation for the lack of cleanliness despite repeated prior instructions.
"Despite several letters instructing action to clean the area around Hampi, no measures have been implemented," the DC cautioned in her communication. She warned that failure to provide an explanation would lead to a recommendation for action against the official to higher authorities.
Cleanup Campaign Before Culture Minister's Visit
The district administration is now organizing a focused cleanliness campaign targeting monuments, parking lots, and public toilets. This drive gains added urgency with the scheduled visit of Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to Hampi in the coming days. DC Mannikeri has ordered all irregularities to be addressed before this high-profile visit.
Emphasizing Hampi's significance, she noted that as the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and a premier tourist destination, it draws a significant number of domestic and international visitors. This status necessitates impeccable maintenance and prompt rectification of any sanitation issues in visitor-heavy areas to preserve India's cultural heritage and ensure a positive experience for all.
