In a determined effort to keep the city of Barmer clean, District Collector Tina Dabi, the topper of the 2015 UPSC exam, has taken a firm stance against shopkeepers who are failing to maintain cleanliness standards. Recently, during a cleanliness inspection drive, Dabi was seen reprimanding shopkeepers at the Kisan Market for littering and the lack of dustbins in front of their shops.
Dabi expressed her frustration, stating, “You all are throwing things in the drain and here and there. I will get this shop closed…This is not a place to throw garbage. Right now, I am getting the garbage removed. I will come again after two days to see. I should see big dustbins in front of every shop here. All of you can buy one dustbin each. It is not a matter of shame to clean the area in front of your shop.”
In another instance, Dabi warned shopkeepers about potential action the administration could take against them. She even offered to provide dustbins to those who couldn’t afford them. “Why are you throwing garbage in the drain? This man is number one in spreading garbage. If there is no dustbin from tomorrow, the shop will be closed. Dustbins are needed to throw garbage, not polythene. Today we have come to warn you. If dirt is found tomorrow, you will be fined ₹ 500. If you cannot arrange a dustbin, then tell us, we will provide one.”
Dabi’s message was clear: everyone has a responsibility to maintain cleanliness. She stated, “It is my responsibility to keep Barmer clean just as much as it is yours. It should not happen that from tomorrow you start throwing garbage in the open again.”
After her stern warning, Dabi, along with the Municipal Council, used JCB machines and tractors to collect heaps of roadside garbage, demonstrating her commitment to a cleaner Barmer. Her strong actions and emphasis on shared responsibility have sparked conversations about the importance of community involvement in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
