‘Suvidha Kendra’ Initiative in Mumbai a Model for Urban Cleanliness – Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Swachh Maharashtra Mission Gains Momentum in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region

Mumbai, Nov 2025 : To improve urban sanitation, water conservation, and public health, the ‘Suvidha Kendra’ initiative—implemented in Mumbai through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds—has emerged as an exemplary model. Under the vision of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the Swachh Maharashtra campaign is gaining strong momentum across the state, with several organisations joining the mission in response to his appeal.

Launched through a partnership between Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the initiative has achieved significant results in a short span. Currently, 23 centres are operational in Mumbai, and the 24th centre will open soon. Additionally, two more centres are under construction and proposals for seven others are in progress. With support from BMC, HUL, HSBC, and JSW Foundation, the initiative is set for further expansion in the coming years.

These centres aim to provide safe, clean, and affordable sanitation facilities for slum and underserved communities. So far, 5.5 lakh citizens have directly benefited from the facilities, and the model has proven to be highly effective from a public health perspective.

Recognising the importance of Suvidha Kendras in building a sustainable sanitation ecosystem, Chief Minister Fadnavis has directed that more such centres be established across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Speaking about the project, CM Fadnavis said that in a densely populated city like Mumbai, the Suvidha Kendra model is an outstanding example of public–private partnership. These centres significantly contribute to the city’s health safety. Special attention has been given to providing quality amenities, promoting community participation, encouraging behaviour change, ensuring economic and environmental sustainability, and maintaining efficient operations. He described the initiative as a model for urban Maharashtra.

Key Features of the Initiative

Safe and Dignified Sanitation
The centres offer women from slum and informal settlements safe toilets, clean spaces for children, and accessible facilities for persons with disabilities—making Suvidha Kendras truly community-friendly.

Environment-Friendly Model
Water-saving technologies, energy-efficient systems, and effective waste management practices make this a strong example of environmental sustainability.

Women’s Participation in the Community
A team of 300 trained women has led behaviour-change campaigns, educating 7.5 lakh citizens on sanitation practices. This has resulted in positive changes in habits, hygiene behaviour, and health awareness.

Health Benefits
‘Suvidha Kendras’ have contributed to a 50% reduction in gastrointestinal infections, diarrhoea, and urinary tract infections. Diseases caused by contaminated water and lack of sanitation—especially prevalent in slum areas—have significantly declined.

Economically Self-Sustaining Model
Within just nine months of launch, each centre becomes financially self-sufficient. Today, all 23 centres in Mumbai operate independently and sustainably.