For the first time since its establishment in 2009, the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) has undertaken a massive cleanliness drive across its 7 hospitals and 21 urban primary health centers. The initiative, ordered by Additional Commissioner Sanjay Herwade, marks a historic shift in addressing long-neglected sanitation issues that had plagued these healthcare facilities for over a decade and a half.

A Long-Awaited Cleanup

The VVMC, formed in July 2009, manages healthcare facilities catering to a population of over 2.5 million. However, until last week, its hospitals and health centers were riddled with grime, clutter, and foul odors. Unused equipment, piles of discarded files, electronic waste, and layers of dust had accumulated in corridors and storage areas. Ceiling fans were coated with grime, and stagnant water patches bred mosquitoes, creating an unwelcoming environment for patients and staff alike .

The situation came to light during a surprise inspection by Additional Commissioner Sanjay Herwade, who described the conditions as “shockingly unhygienic.” “It’s our duty to provide clean healthcare spaces. Patients deserve dignity,” Herwade stated, issuing strict orders for immediate action.

The Mega Drive: A Saturday Sweep

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, over 500 healthcare staff swapped their medical tools for brooms and cleaning supplies. The timing was strategic: weekends allowed full focus without disrupting weekday operations. Teams scrubbed floors, washed windows, cleared clogged drains, and removed decades-old junk. Outdated medical equipment, e-waste, and rusted furniture were hauled away, while disinfectants tackled lingering odors.

Patients and relatives, accustomed to navigating cluttered corridors, expressed relief. “The smell was unbearable earlier. Now, it feels like a proper hospital,” said Ramesh Patil, a visitor at Virar General Hospital.

Why Now?

The cleanup was long overdue. Despite daily surface-level cleaning, systemic neglect had turned hospitals into dumping grounds. Herwade’s audit revealed shocking gaps:

  1. E-Waste Crisis: Obsolete machines and damaged devices were stored haphazardly, posing safety risks.
  2. Paper Graveyards: Administrative blocks were buried under outdated records, some dating back to the VVMC’s founding.
  3. Structural Issues: Blocked drains and broken tiles worsened sanitation challenges.

Herwade warned staff of strict penalties for non-compliance, emphasizing that cleanliness would now be a priority.

Broader Context: A Pattern of Neglect

This drive follows years of sporadic efforts. In 2023, a Gandhi Jayanti cleanup collected 56 tons of waste but faced criticism for being a “one-day photo op” . Similarly, a 2024 coastal cleanup set a global record with 13,000 volunteers but struggled with sustained impact .

However, the 2025 hospital drive stands out for its institutional focus. Unlike past campaigns targeting beaches or streets, this initiative directly addresses healthcare infrastructure—a critical need amid the VVMC’s recent expansion of 11 new health centers in 2024 .

Challenges Ahead

While the cleanup has brought immediate relief, questions linger. Will the VVMC allocate funds for regular maintenance? Can staff balance medical duties with sanitation upkeep? Herwade assures follow-up audits, but locals remain cautious. “We’ve seen cleanups before. The real test is keeping it clean,” said activist Priya Desai.

A Step Toward Healthier Communities

The drive aligns with broader health goals. In 2024, the VVMC intensified TB detection, screening 692 patients in two months . Cleaner hospitals could reduce infection risks and improve patient outcomes.

As sunlight streams through freshly cleaned windows at Nalasopara Health Center, the mood is hopeful. For now, Vasai-Virar’s healthcare facilities shine—a small but vital victory in the city’s journey toward better public health.