Pourakarmikas deserve credit for Mysuru Dasara success: Yathindra

Yathindra Siddaramaiah

Minister in-charge of Mysuru district Yathindra Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said the contribution of pourakarmikas, underground drainage (UGD) workers and vehicle drivers was crucial in keeping Mysuru clean during Dasara-2026, which attracted more than 10 lakh tourists.

Speaking after inaugurating an appreciation programme and lunch for pourakarmikas at Rajendra Kalamandira, he said maintaining cleanliness, sanitation and public health during the festivities was a major responsibility that the workers had effectively discharged through their round-the-clock efforts.

Mysuru Dasara is a major cultural festival that attracts global attention and brings lakhs of visitors to the city. Recognising the dedication of those who work behind the scenes to maintain the city’s cleanliness and beauty was the responsibility of both the government and society, he said.

Dr. Yathindra recalled that the Congress government, led by then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, had introduced the breakfast scheme for pourakarmikas and taken the decision to regularise their services, providing them with greater job security.

The government was committed to respecting workers’ contributions and enhancing their security and confidence, he said, emphasising that acknowledging the efforts of those who kept the city clean was a social responsibility.

Pourakarmikas, UGD workers and vehicle drivers who rendered outstanding service during Dasara were felicitated at the programme. The Minister later shared lunch with them and interacted with the workers.

MLA K. Harish Gowda, former mayor Narayana, Regional Commissioner Nitesh Patil, Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikantha Reddy, Mysuru City Corporation Commissioner M.K. Savitha and other officials and dignitaries were present.