The Swachh Survekshan Awards conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in India are part of an annual cleanliness and sanitation survey. It was launched in 2016 as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission, this initiative aims to assess urban local bodies (ULBs) on various cleanliness parameters and promote a competitive spirit among cities to enhance sanitation and hygiene practices. To encourage citizen participation, promote healthy competition, and transform urban sanitation are its key objectives.
In the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2024, Surat was once again recognized for its cleanliness efforts, securing a prominent position among the top clean cities. While implementing effective waste management systems, public awareness campaigns, and infrastructure improvements, surat cleanest city has contributed to its high ranking.
Surat, cleanest city on the list this year, located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and economic significance, particularly in the diamond and textile industries. Over the years, Surat has transformed into a modern urban centre while maintaining its historical charm, making it a fascinating destination for tourists.
Places to visit in Surat
Surat cleanest city boasts a variety of attractions that cater to different interests, from historical sites to natural beauty. Here are some notable places to explore in Surat:
- Dumas Beach: With its black sand and scenic beauty, this beach is a tourist favourite. From leisurely walks to picnics in the evening one can enjoy the beautiful sunsets from the Dumas beach.
- Jagdish Chandra Bose Aquarium: This aquarium of Surat is one of the largest aquariums in India. It features a diverse range of marine life and is also known as a popular educational and entertaining destination.
- Swaminarayan Temple: The temple’s intricate carvings and vibrant culture, have become an important religious site. One should visit this temple to acknowledge the serene atmosphere.
- Dutch Garden: Featuring beautiful tombs and lush greenery, this historical garden is a remnant of Surat's colonial past.
- Sardar Patel Museum: This museum of Surat, showcases artefacts related to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's life and contributions to the nation. It is a dedication to one of India's founding fathers.
- Tapi Riverfront: Want to stroll, cycle or enjoy local snacks? Well, this beautiful Riverfront in Surat offers it all.
Markets in Surat
The city of Surat is lauded for its busy and fast-moving markets. Especially, it is backed by its huge markets of textiles and diamonds. Here is a look at the major shopping areas in Surat:
- Surat Textile Market: Surat cleanest city is a hub for varied wholesalers and retailers. Fabrics, including silk, cotton, and synthetic materials with various designs and works, have a bulk market as well as movement all over India.
- Gopi Talav: This area not only offers shopping but also provides a scenic view of the lake, making it a great spot for a leisurely evening.
- VR Surat: The premium mall with a blend of various brand outlets is the famous mall in Surat. Whether you are looking for designer wear or any branded clothing this mall has it all! And not only shopping one can experience dining options and entertainment options as well.
- Pankaj Market: This market is a popular local pick as it offers an aesthetic collection alongside scrumptious street food options.
Food in Surat
Surat's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Gujarati cuisine and street food. Some must-try dishes are:
- Surti Undhiyu: A dish with a blend of mixed vegetables and is cooked with Indian spices. This dish is mostly served during festivals.
- Dhokla: A must-try soft spongy snack, which is the local's favourite, as a day can’t go waste without a piece of dhokla with spicy mint chutney alongside.
- Khandvi: A mouth-watering savoury, which is rolled into thin layers and it just melts down the throat. It is garnished with fresh coriander leaves mustard seeds and grated coconut on top of it.
- Street Food: Surat the cleanest city is renowned for its varied range of street food. Visit the roadside stalls and tantalise your buds with the most famous food options jalebi-fafda, imarti, pav bhaji, thikki-mithi pani puri, dabeli, kadhi kachori, samosa cutlet and bhel puri.
Alongside Surat cleanest city, the other cities that were awarded Swachh Survekshan Awards 2024, are the cleanest:
- Indore: One of the biggest cities of Madhya Pradesh, it has been jointly awarded with the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2024 as the cleanest city for the seventh consecutive year.
- Sasvad: This place has been awarded as the top position among smaller cities. Sasvad is one of the cleanest cities with a population under 1 Lakh.
- Patan: While named the cleanest city with a population under 1 Lakh patan also secured the second position in the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2024.
- Lonavala: This beautiful touristy town in Maharashtra has achieved the third position, in the Swachh Survekshan results, India.