Dibrugarh strives to rid public spaces of tobacco spittle stains

Time of India

a day ago

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Dibrugarh: The Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation (DMC) has launched an intensive cleanliness drive to rid the city's public spaces of red stains left by paan, betel nuts, and tobacco spittle.
The initiative, part of the 'Safai Apnao, Bimari Bhagao' (Adopt cleanliness, drive away disease) campaign, aims to restore the city's aesthetic appeal, while promoting public hygiene.
For years, red-splattered pillars, walls, and footpaths have marred Dibrugarh's streets, a result of widespread spitting by paan and tobacco consumers. The stubborn stains create an eyesore and also pose health risks. To combat this, DMC has teamed up with Indore-based Shrishti Waste Management Services (SWMS) and mobilised enforcement staff, interns, and volunteers to scrub, repaint, and transform these public spaces.
The drive involves deep cleaning the affected areas, repainting walls and pillars with white paint, and installing vibrant awareness messages, urging citizens to refrain from spitting. Mayor Saikat Patra emphasised that the campaign is as much about changing mindsets as it is about beautification.
"These red spots have been a longstanding issue that affects both the visual appeal of our city and public health. Through this comprehensive drive, we are not just cleaning the city, but also spreading awareness about maintaining civic hygiene.
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We want Dibrugarh to be known for its cleanliness," Patra said.
Teams armed with high-pressure jets, scrubbers, and eco-friendly cleaning agents have been deployed across key locations. The SWMS, known for its expertise in urban cleanliness projects, is providing technical support to ensure long-lasting results.
While many residents have welcomed the initiative, some remain sceptical about its long-term impact.
"It's a good step, but unless people change their habits, the stains will return," said Brishti Borah, a college student.
To address this, the DMC is rolling out awareness programmes, including social media campaigns, highlighting the health hazards of spitting in public. The DMC plans to extend the drive to markets, bus stands, and govt offices in the weeks to come.
Meanwhile, freshly painted walls now carry messages like "Spitting Spreads Diseases, Not Culture" and "Keep Dibrugarh Clean & Green".Despite the enthusiasm, challenges remain as many habitual chewers continue to spit indiscriminately. Mayor Patra acknowledged the hurdles but remained optimistic. "Change takes time. We're committed to making Dibrugarh a cleaner, healthier city, one step at a time."
As the drive gains momentum, the DMC hopes that civic pride will eventually override old habits, ensuring that Dibrugarh's public spaces stay stain-free for good.