SHILLONG, Oct 3: In response to the rising tourist influx at Duwan Sing Syiem bridge, a key entry point to Sohra (Cherrapunji), the area has been grappling with increasing litter and garbage. To address this, NEEPCO has stepped in, adopting the Dympep tourist hub under the Swachhata Hi Sewa campaign.
known as Mawkdok bridge.
An awareness programme held on September 17, with the involvement of Dorbar Shnong Dympep and other stakeholders, highlighted the extent of the waste problem and its underlying causes. Following this, Major General RK Jha, AVSM (Retd.), Director (Personnel), NEEPCO, visited the Dympep-Mawkdok valley on September 19.
Engaging with locals and tourists, he assessed the challenges and discussed potential solutions.
After consultations, NEEPCO committed to managing the tourist hub’s waste and improving sustainability practices for the next year. The initiative was officially launched during the Swachhata Hi Divas celebrations on October 2, where Padma Shri Patricia Mukhim inaugurated the illumination of the Duwan Sing Syiem bridge. Also present at the event were Padma Shri Silbi Passah, the Sordar of Dympep, and other local dignitaries.
As part of the project, saplings were planted, and dustbins were distributed among vendors in the area to promote cleanliness and environmental awareness. Detailed plans for waste management and sustainable practices are being developed in collaboration with the local community.