When most tourists visit India, they often arrive with certain preconceived notions—one of the most common being the country’s struggle with cleanliness. Crowded streets, open dumping grounds, and pollution are usually what comes to mind. Rarely does the idea of a spotless, well-managed urban space feature in that expectation. However, for UK-based tourist and travel vlogger Daniel Pinto, a visit to one Indian city completely changed that perception.While traveling through India, Pinto landed in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, without any prior knowledge of its reputation. What he experienced there took him by surprise. Indore, often dubbed the ‘Singapore of India‘, has earned the title of the country’s cleanest city—an achievement it has held for seven consecutive years. The city stands as a benchmark of sustainable urban living, driven by robust civic management and community participation.

Pinto captured the city’s essence in a video showcasing its remarkably clean streets and organised infrastructure. From door-to-door garbage collection to the installation of 1,800 CCTV cameras keeping an eye on littering, Indore operates with a level of civic discipline rarely seen elsewhere in the country. One of the city’s most innovative initiatives, a “garbage café” where people can trade plastic waste for meals, adds a unique social touch to its environmental efforts.

Internet reactsSocial media users were quick to react with enthusiasm and pride after seeing Daniel Pinto’s video on Indore. Many expressed surprise, noting they hadn’t expected to see such cleanliness in an Indian city. Some compared Indore’s spotless streets to Singapore, while others extended warm welcomes to the vlogger.

Several viewers identifying as residents of Indore vouched for the city’s transformation, stating that the efforts made over the last seven years have significantly improved its cleanliness standards. Many credited this achievement to the collective responsibility taken by citizens, highlighting that the success of such initiatives depends on public participation.

One particular initiative—the program where plastic waste can be exchanged for a meal—stood out to many as a thoughtful and innovative step toward sustainability. The response overall reflected a sense of civic pride and growing awareness about urban cleanliness.One user said comparing it to Singapore is the best compliment. Another pointed out that cleanliness in Indian cities is more about public policy than racism, and Indore proves it. Someone else noted that it’s not just city authorities but also the efforts of every individual that contribute to keeping the city clean.