India, Dec. 4 -- New Delhi

The state government launched an intensive cleanliness and beautification drive at Chandni Chowk, Red Fort and areas in their vicinity in the run-up to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) cultural heritage session, which is scheduled to start on December 8.

Officials said the move comes on the directions of chief minister Rekha Gupta, who reviewed preparations on Wednesday with the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC), the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). Coordination with the Union culture ministry for the upcoming event was also discussed.

"This entire campaign is not limited to a single conference. Its broader go...