Surat’s Dumas Sea Face has been officially declared a ‘Litter-Free Zone’ by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC), aiming to keep this popular tourist spot clean. With weekends attracting between 10,000 and 15,000 visitors, SMC is rolling out an extensive plan to uphold hygiene standards.
Key Measures in Effect
The new initiative includes several crucial measures:
- Infrastructure Improvements: Color-coded waste bins for wet and dry waste will be placed every 20–30 meters, supported by 20–25 movable dustbins.
- CCTV Surveillance: High-definition cameras will monitor the area, linked to the Athwa Zone and the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC).
Tough Penalties for Littering
Litterers won’t get off easy. Tourists or locals caught tossing trash face on-the-spot fines. Around 25–30 marshals will patrol the vicinity, ensuring compliance while educating visitors about cleanliness.
The enforcement of a plastic ban means banned items will be checked at entry points. “We’re serious about keeping Dumas clean,” said an SMC official.
A Push for Public Awareness
The initiative aims to engage the public directly through various awareness campaigns. Cleanliness messages are set to be displayed via LED screens across Dumas Sea Face. Special selfie points with “I Support Litter-Free Dumas” signs will encourage public involvement.
Zonal Responsibility and Community Engagement
Diverse zones within Dumas will take charge of specific areas during weekends, enhancing community participation in cleanliness efforts. Regular drives in collaboration with NGOs and local students every Saturday and Sunday aim to foster a sense of responsibility among citizens.
The SMC calls on both citizens and tourists to actively participate in maintaining one of Surat’s landmark sites.