In celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's 155th birth anniversary, MEPZ Special Economic Zone (SEZ) hosted a series of events aligned with the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and cleanliness. The highlights included the Inauguration of a Solid Waste Management System (SWMS) and an enhanced Access Control System, both aimed at making MEPZ SEZ cleaner, greener, and more secure.
The ceremony kicked off with Thiru Alex Paul Menon, IAS, Development Commissioner of MEPZ SEZ, garlanding the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the 'Garden of Peace' at the Administrative Building, followed by floral tributes from officers and staff. Reflecting the Swachhata Hi Seva theme of collective responsibility for cleanliness, the event showcased MEPZ's active role in promoting sustainable, hygienic practices.
At the heart of the event was the inauguration of the Solid Waste Management System at 10:00 AM, aligning with the SHS campaign’s focus on Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) through Shramdaan activities. The SWMS will enhance waste disposal mechanisms within the zone, advancing the broader Swachh Bharat Mission. The event featured dignitaries including Thiru P. Narayanan, Deputy Commissioner of Tambaram City Municipal Corporation, who emphasized how effective waste management will help transform MEPZ into a Zero Emission Zone.
Additionally, the installation of Retro Emission Control Device (RECD) filters on diesel generators, is a step towards pollution control. These filters convert harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxide (NO2), and hydrocarbons (HC) into harmless substances like water vapor (H2O), nitrogen (N2), and carbon dioxide (CO2), meeting the cleanliness standards set by CPCB and CAQM.
The inauguration of the newly built Durga Nagar Gate by Tambaram Mayor Tmt. Vasantha Kumari marked another milestone. The gate’s strategic location will ease the commute for employees and improve overall infrastructure.
The event concluded with an oath-taking ceremony, where MEPZ staff pledged to uphold cleanliness and sustainability, echoing the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 theme, “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata,” which promotes cleanliness as a core societal value. The program ended with the National Anthem and a hi-tea session, attended by officers, staff, and dignitaries.
MEPZ SEZ's initiatives stand as a testament to Mahatma Gandhi's vision of a clean and sustainable India, in alignment with the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign, which culminates on Swachh Bharat Diwas.