By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 7: The heart of Shillong, Police Bazar, which faces growing challenges with litter and waste management, saw a community endeavour during the Shramdaan cleaning drive organised by the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong, in collaboration with the Shillong Municipal Board, as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign.
The event was designed to promote cleanliness, environmental responsibility, and community involvement, aligning with the national Swachhata Campaign’s goals. Among the prominent participants were Minister of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, AL Hek; SDO (Sadar) Anendya Raajsshre; Headman of Riatsamthiah, Mariahom Kharkrang; and KK Jhunjhunwala, vice president of the Police Bazar Welfare Organisation.
Enthusiastic students from Martin Luther Christian University, St. Edmund’s College, and Jail Road Boys Higher Secondary School joined forces with jawans from BSF and CRPF, Fire and Emergency Services, as well as local shopkeepers, hawkers, and residents. Municipal cleaners from the Shillong Municipal Board also took part, demonstrating a united effort to revitalise the city’s heart.
Minister of Fisheries, AL Hek, who served as the event’s chief guest, underscored the importance of cleanliness and commended the collective efforts in the drive. He extended special recognition to Jiwat Vaswani, an individual tirelessly dedicated to environmental conservation in Shillong, describing him as “the real ambassador for keeping our city clean.”
Reflecting on the tradition of cleanliness, Hek highlighted the example of Mawlynnong, known as Asia’s cleanest village, where every resident plays a role in maintaining cleanliness. “If we, as Shillong’s residents, adopt this mindset, we can make our city the cleanest in the country.”
Hek also lauded the Editor of The Shillong Times and Padmashree awardee, Patricia Mukhim, for her efforts in cleaning one of Shillong’s major rivers, recognising her dedication to environmental responsibility.
Speaking at the event, PK Boro, CEO of the Shillong Municipal Board, emphasised that “waste disposal is not just a municipal concern; it’s our collective duty.” “All stakeholders, especially those in Police Bazar, need to take initiative and set an example. If Mawlynnong can be recognised as the cleanest village in Asia, we can also strive to be the cleanest state in India and perhaps the world,” Boro stated.
Riatsamthiah Headman, M Kharkrang, who joined the clean-up, noted that conversations about cleanliness often focus on government agencies, while citizens, pedestrians, and shopkeepers also play crucial roles. He highlighted Shillong’s natural beauty and urged residents to be more conscious of pollution, referencing the ongoing pollution issues at Umiam Lake.
The programme also included the recognition of seven Safai Mitras, and awards were given to Jail Road Boys Higher Secondary School students who participated in an essay competition on cleanliness. Additionally, several hawkers received financial assistance through the PM SVANidhi Scheme, supporting their economic recovery.
At the site, a Health Screening Camp organised by the District Medical and Health Officer offered free check-ups to attendees, while an Aadhaar camp set up by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) assisted locals in updating or obtaining their Aadhaar cards. The Meghalaya State Rural Livelihood Society also showcased local handicrafts, supporting artisans from across the region.
The day’s activities featured an energetic flash mob performance by the Meghalaya Warriors Dance Academy, promoting the theme of cleanliness, while the event concluded with a musical performance by the local band “Sob Rock,” captivating the crowd and bringing the community together to celebrate their city.