Working towards the goal of making Maharashtra a "open defecation free" state, Governor C Vidyasagar Rao today said 50 towns in the state will become 'swachh' by the end of 2016.

"Government is working towards the goal of making Maharashtra open defecation free and ensuring 100 per cent segregation, collection and processing of municipal solid waste as an extension of 'Swachh Maharashtra Abhiyan'. I am happy to state that 50 towns will become 'swachh' by the end of this year," Rao said in his address after unfurling the national flag on Republic Day at Shivjai Park here.