Uttar Pradesh has shown impressive gains in the Swachh Survekshan 2024-2025 rankings, indicating a significant improvement in urban sanitation and cleanliness compared to the previous year. Key metrics like Water+ certification, ODF++ coverage, and the count of Garbage Free Cities (GFCs) have seen considerable progress.
The rise in Water+ certified cities is notable, increasing from just two in 2023 to 16 in 2024. Simultaneously, the number of ODF++ certified cities has more than doubled, growing from 129 to 337, highlighting better waste management practices. The state has also improved in Garbage Free City ratings.
Lucknow achieved a 7-star rating, while six other cities earned 5-star ratings. Overall, the number of GFCs increased by 18, reaching a total of 83. In the million-plus cities category, Lucknow secured a top-three position nationwide. Other cities, like Gorakhpur and Moradabad, also performed well in their respective population categories. Uttar Pradesh’s Finance Minister highlighted the positive developments, particularly Lucknow’s improved ranking.