Mysuru run for cleanliness draws big crowd

Mysuru: The ‘Run for Mysuru, Unite for Cleanliness' event, organised by the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) to promote public participation in hygiene and environmental initiatives, witnessed an overwhelming response on Sunday.The run was flagged off from the Kote Anjaneya Swamy Temple premises at the North Gate of the Mysuru Palace.
Renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj was one of the highlights of the event, completing the 10km run, inspiring both participants and onlookers.The marathon route covered several prominent city stretches, beginning at the Kote Anjaneya Swamy Temple and passing through KR Circle, Devaraj Urs Road, JLB Road, Ramaswamy Circle, Chamaraja Double Road, Basaveshwara Circle, Palace Road, and Hardinge Circle, before concluding at the palace.More than 4,000 participants—including students, members of various organisations, and the general public—took part in the 3 km, 5 km, and 10 km categories. The participation of specially abled individuals received widespread appreciation, reinforcing inclusive spirit of the event.Winners in each category were awarded cash prizes of Rs 10,000, Rs 5,000, and Rs 3,000 for the first three positions, along with medals and certificates. All participants received commemorative medals and certificates.Addressing the gathering, district in-charge minister HC Mahadevappa said cleanliness is a collective social responsibility. He emphasised that environmental protection is vital for public safety and urged citizens to protect Mysuru's heritage and its reputation as a "heavenly city." He called on residents to begin cleanliness efforts at home to help Mysuru regain its status as India's cleanest city.Speaking on the occasion, Arun Yogiraj highlighted the importance of sports for public health and appealed to citizens to work collectively toward building a "clean Mysuru." He said the responsibility of restoring the city's former glory lies in the hands of its people.The event concluded with a signature campaign promoting cleanliness.MLAs K Harishgowda and TS Srivatsa, deputy commissioner G Lakshmikanth Reddy, and city police commissioner Seema Latkar were present.