Towards safer roads and cleaner surroundings: A roadside cleaning initiative by Vidya NSS

As part of the Road Safety Flagship Program initiated by KTU NSS, the NSS Units of Vidya Academy of Science and Technology organized a roadside cleaning initiative at Velur on 1 October 2025. The program aimed to raise awareness about road safety, environmental cleanliness, and the importance of maintaining a hygienic, obstruction-free roadside environment for the safety of both pedestrians and motorists.

The primary objective of the initiative was to support the KTU NSS Road Safety Flagship Program through a community-oriented activity that promotes road safety and cleanliness. The drive sought to ensure safer roads by removing waste, litter, and potential obstructions, while also spreading awareness about the need for clean surroundings as a key factor in preventing road hazards.

Beyond its immediate environmental benefits, the initiative encouraged volunteers to develop social responsibility, understand the link between cleanliness and safety, and actively contribute to the well-being of their community.

A total of 22 NSS volunteers enthusiastically participated in the roadside cleaning drive. The event began with a briefing session at 9:00 AM at the designated location in Velur, where volunteers were introduced to the objectives, safety measures, and activity plan.

The participants were divided into small groups and assigned specific roadside stretches for cleaning. They collected litter, plastic waste, and debris, ensuring proper segregation and disposal of materials. In addition to the cleaning work, volunteers interacted with local residents to emphasize the importance of maintaining cleanliness and supporting safer roads.

The program was effectively coordinated by the Road Safety Unit Coordinators: Amal Krishna Dev (S5 EEE), Anusha Antony (S5 CSE), Anamika K B (S5 CSE), Celine C P (S5 AIML), and Sisira T S (S5 AIML). Their leadership, teamwork, and dedication ensured the smooth execution of the event and active participation of all volunteers.

The initiative was conducted under the guidance of Mr. Rajesh S K (NSS Programme Officer and Asso Prof, EEE Dept) and Mr. Ranjith E R (NSS Programme Officer and Asst Prof, ME Dept).. Their supervision, motivation, and support were instrumental in the success of the program.

The roadside cleaning initiative at Velur, organized under the KTU NSS Road Safety Flagship Program, proved to be a meaningful and impactful community engagement activity. The volunteers’ wholehearted participation, the efficient coordination by student leaders, and the dedicated guidance of faculty members contributed to its success.