Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) achieved massive success at the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026, with Ward 60 ranking 2nd nationally and Ward 31 winning at the state level.

  • Ward 60 secured the 2nd rank nationally in the Best Performing Wards category.
  • Ward 31 was recognized as the Best Performing Ward at the State level.
  • VMC was awarded a total cash prize of ₹45 lakh.
  • The awards were presented under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

VIJAYAWADA: In a significant achievement for urban environmental management, two wards under the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) have been honored at both national and state levels during the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026. Conducted under the aegis of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), these awards highlight the city's commitment to air quality improvement.

The recognition took place during a high-profile ceremony in New Delhi on the occasion of National Clean Air Day. VMC Commissioner Dhyanachandra H.M. received the accolades from Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh, and Secretary Tanmay Kumar. The corporation also secured a substantial cash prize of ₹30 lakh for its excellence.

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Breakdown of Achievements

The 60th ward emerged as a national standout, ranking 2nd in the country by scoring an impressive 190 out of 200 marks. The Commissioner attributed this success to the 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Centre' located within the ward. Through the implementation of a Material Recovery Facility (MRF), the ward has mastered the art of systematic waste segregation, ensuring that recyclable and reusable materials are recovered efficiently.

On the state level, Ward 31 achieved perfection, securing a full score and being named the Best Performing Ward in Andhra Pradesh. This ward was awarded a cash prize of ₹15 lakh. Key drivers for this success included scientific vermicomposting, the installation of advanced pollution-control equipment at crematoriums, extensive greenery along the Eluru Canal bund, and the establishment of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the success of Vijayawada serves as a scalable model for urban centers across India. By integrating waste management with air quality goals, VMC is proving that environmental sustainability and urban development can go hand-in-hand.

The integration of scientific waste management and green cover expansion is the most effective strategy for mitigating urban air pollution.

Historically, Indian cities have struggled with rising particulate matter levels. The NCAP framework aims to address this through localized action. VMC’s innovative approach—such as converting construction and demolition waste into bricks—sets a new standard for circular economy practices in municipal governance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Which ward from Vijayawada ranked nationally?
Answer: Ward 60 ranked second nationally in the Best Performing Wards category.

Question 2: What initiatives helped Ward 31 win at the state level?
Answer: Key initiatives included vermicomposting, modern crematorium equipment, greenery development, and EV charging stations.

Did You Know?: Scientific waste management, like the windrow composting used by VMC, can significantly reduce methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.