Shillong: The Operation Clean-Up team recently shifted its focus from the Umkaliar River to the streets of Police Bazar, including Keating, Quinton, and Thana roads. East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal joined volunteers to inspect the area, where local vendors and tourists have contributed to significant waste accumulation. The team discovered that street vendors often lack proper disposal methods, relying on municipal sweepers to clear their refuse.
Drains along the busy streets were found to be heavily clogged, prompting volunteers to manually remove debris to restore water flow. Members of the organization argued that stricter enforcement and fines are necessary to deter littering. During a post-clean-up meeting, the group emphasized that local business owners must take greater accountability for maintaining the city's cleanliness given their steady income from the region. As team leader Patricia Mukhim noted, "That’s the least they can do for the city that provides them a steady income over the decades."
Operation Clean-Up, which includes members from various institutions like IIM Shillong and the Meghalaya Home Guards, plans to meet with the Deputy Commissioner to discuss long-term sustainability for these drives. While the group continues its advocacy, they remain concerned about the apparent lack of involvement from the Dorbar Shnong and the District Council regarding the protection of natural resources. Deputy Commissioner Baranwal expressed his support for the mission, stating, "I was delighted to see citizens coming together to clean the city they love."
Comments