Bardiha: In a refreshing example of citizen-centric governance, the Bardiha administration marked Gandhi Jayanti and Swachhta Diwas not merely with symbolic celebrations but through direct public engagement, field inspections and immediate grievance redressal. Block Development Officer-cum-Circle Officer Praveen Kumar Singh and Police Station In-Charge Rahul Kumar Singh led a special cleanliness and public outreach campaign, walking alongside local residents to review civic conditions and address issues on the ground.
The officials personally participated in the cleaning of the Bardiha-Garhwa State Highway, supervised the removal of minor encroachments and interacted with residents during a foot march that covered several villages and public locations. The initiative witnessed the participation of public representatives, including the Obra Panchayat Mukhiya, ward members and local community leaders.
What drew particular attention was the active involvement of the police station in-charge in the cleanliness drive. Residents described the joint initiative as a positive example of coordination between civil administration and law enforcement, noting that such field-level participation strengthens public confidence in governance.
However, the campaign went far beyond sanitation. During the walk, Praveen Kumar Singh listened to public grievances and ensured immediate action in several cases. When a beneficiary, Chandradev Paswan, complained about not receiving ration supplies, the BDO directly contacted the Block Supply Officer and ordered a prompt inquiry. In another instance, an elderly man suffering from a long-standing wound was connected with health officials for immediate medical attention.
The team also inspected a defunct hand pump, directed its urgent repair, reviewed sanitation conditions at an Anganwadi centre, and ordered corrective measures where deficiencies were found. Complaints regarding land encroachment, road connectivity and village infrastructure were also taken up during the visit.
A significant intervention was made in Babhni Muslim Tola, where nearly 20 families have long faced difficulties due to the absence of an accessible road. After conducting a detailed on-foot inspection, the BDO identified potential routes and assured residents that steps would be taken following a formal survey.
The inspection concluded at Rajwari Tola, where damaged roads and rain-affected houses were reviewed. Residents whose homes were damaged during recent rains were advised to submit applications so that financial assistance could be processed under government norms.
Speaking on the occasion, Praveen Kumar Singh said Gandhi Jayanti should not only inspire cleanliness but also reinforce the spirit of public service and accountability. He emphasised that governance becomes meaningful when officials step out of offices and engage directly with people.
The initiative, carried out on a public holiday, received widespread appreciation from local residents who described it as a rare example of responsive administration and grassroots governance.