As part of the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign, the Centre for Periyar River Basin Management and Studies (cPeriyar), IIT Palakkad, under the National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD), organised a series of environmental awareness and cleanliness activities at Aluva on 2 October 2026, in collaboration with Aluva Municipality, Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Aluva, and Islamic Higher Secondary School, Aluva.

The programme included a tree plantation drive, a cleanliness campaign, and an awareness session on the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026. Smt Syji Jolly, Chairperson, Aluva Municipality, inaugurated the program, and Dr Athira P., Associate Professor, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Officials from various government departments, representatives of Aluva Municipality, students, and residents participated in the programme.

As part of the cleanliness initiative, a drive was conducted along the stretch from Aluva Metro Station to Aluva Junction, with particular focus on a location that had been used as a dumping site for solid waste. Various types of accumulated waste were removed from the site during the campaign. Following the cleaning activity, the Municipality has proposed developing the site as a skating practice ground, thereby contributing to the productive reuse of the reclaimed public space.

The participating municipal and government officials appreciated the involvement of cPeriyar, IIT Palakkad, in addressing solid waste management issues and promoting environmental awareness among students and the local community. The initiative highlighted the importance of collaboration among academic institutions, local governments, schools, and communities to promote sustainable waste management, environmental stewardship, and cleaner public spaces.