Ranchi: The state of cleanliness in Ranchi has severely deteriorated in the aftermath of Diwali celebrations, with garbage littering streets across the state capital.
Domestic waste carelessly discarded on main roads and in residential areas has created a sanitation crisis.
The accumulation of waste has attracted stray animals, further scattering debris across roadways and impeding resident movement. Major areas including Circular Road, from Lalpur to the court, and beneath the Kantatoli Flyover are particularly affected, with visible garbage heaps at numerous locations.
Sadabahar Chowk in Namkum has emerged as one of the worst-affected areas. Similar conditions plague New Nagar Deepatoli, Cheshire Home Road, Plaza Chowk, Bariatu Road, and Kishoreganj Chowk on Ratu Road, where foul odours from stagnant waste have become a major concern.
“Days have passed since Diwali, yet garbage remains on the roads. Many areas of the city are still littered with waste,” said Supriti Rani, a Ratu resident. She added that accumulation of garbage near drains poses a flooding risk during rainfall.
The Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has responded by appointing ward supervisors and establishing a complaint cell for resident feedback.
However, these measures are yet to show significant results in improving the city's hygiene standards.
Deputy administrator Ravindra Kumar said, “The corporation is implementing a cleanliness drive with adequate staff deployed to clean areas, including ponds, in preparation for Chhath Puja. Our teams are working round the clock to clear festival waste and educate residents about responsible disposal. However, there is a lack of civic awareness among the community.”
Kumar further explained, “During Diwali, people cleaned their homes, generating substantial waste that was carelessly disposed of on streets. The situation worsened with the addition of burnt firecrackers and old decorations.”
The crisis highlights the urgent need for better waste management systems and increased public awareness about proper waste disposal practices in Ranchi.