Uttar Pradesh named India’s cleanest state in Swachh Survekshan 2024–25; Lucknow ranks 3rd among cities

Lucknow becomes Uttar Pradesh’s cleanest city, earning a 7-star Garbage Free City rating and ranking 3rd among India’s megacities.

In a remarkable stride towards urban sanitation and sustainable living, Uttar Pradesh has emerged as India’s cleanest state in the 9th edition of the Swachh Survekshan 2024–25, conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. A total of 78 awards were presented at the ceremony, held on July 17 at Vigyan Bhawan in Delhi, with President Droupadi Murmu felicitating the winners. Uttar Pradesh bagged top honours across categories, cementing its place not just on the cleanliness map—but also as one of India’s most travel-worthy states.

Lucknow: Now One of India’s Cleanest Mega Cities

The state capital, Lucknow, made history by becoming the first city in Uttar Pradesh to achieve a 7-star Garbage Free City (GFC) rating. It was also ranked third among Indian cities with populations over one million, earning the coveted Presidential Award for its efforts. With improved waste management, beautified public spaces, and heritage conservation, Lucknow is now a top-tier clean city—and an even more irresistible destination for travellers.

Prayagraj: Cleanest Ganga City

Prayagraj crowned Cleanest Ganga City for its stellar sanitation efforts ahead of Mahakumbh 2025.

The holy city of Prayagraj was declared the Cleanest Ganga City, particularly for its large-scale cleanliness efforts ahead of Mahakumbh 2025. A key pilgrimage hub and cultural powerhouse, Prayagraj is now being celebrated for blending tradition with modern sanitation practices.

Gorakhpur, Agra, and Other Cities Shine

Gorakhpur walked away with double honours: ranked third in the Safaimitra Surakshit Sheher category and fourth in the 3–10 lakh population bracket, along with a 5-star GFC rating.

Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, was named Emerging Clean City of Uttar Pradesh and ranked 32nd nationally, also securing a 5-star GFC certification.

Agra named Emerging Clean City of Uttar Pradesh with a 5-star GFC rating—adding sparkle to the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal.

Smaller cities weren’t left behind.

Moradabad ranked 10th in its category (population: 3–10 lakh)

Bijnor took the 29th spot in the Cleanest Ganga Towns category

Shamshabad featured at 95th in the medium city list

These accolades reflect a statewide transformation in how cities handle sanitation, public hygiene, and waste disposal.

Why This Matters for Travellers

For those planning their next holiday, Uttar Pradesh’s cleaner, greener cities now offer not just iconic sights but also improved infrastructure and a healthier environment. From spiritual getaways to culinary adventures, the state presents an enriched travel experience.

(Image: Canva)

Top Things to Do in India’s Cleanest State

1. Explore the Taj Mahal in Agra: The eternal symbol of love, now framed by cleaner surroundings and better public amenities.
2. Attend the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi: A moving spiritual experience set against the backdrop of a city undergoing eco-friendly transformation.
3. Savour Kebabs and Biryani in Lucknow: Indulge in the city’s famous Awadhi cuisine while walking through clean and well-maintained streets.
4. Visit Ayodhya and Mathura: Holy towns linked to Lord Ram and Krishna, now spruced up for pilgrims and tourists alike.