Amid growing tourism, Shillong’s garbage crisis remains an eyesore

SHILLONG, Nov 26: Whilst Meghalaya has witnessed a steady rise in tourist inflow in recent years, the state capital continues to battle an alarming garbage crisis that threatens its image as a clean and scenic destination.
The absence of dustbins in public spaces has led to rampant littering, turning roadsides into makeshift dumping grounds.
A stroll from IGP Point to Police Bazaar highlights the issue, with roadsides littered with cups, wrappers and chip packets.
Some stretches have become virtual trash cans and building walls along these roads are often strewn with waste.
Some residents, however, lament the lack of adequate dustbins in public places, a glaring oversight in a city that prides itself on being clean.
The problem reached an embarrassing peak after individuals were found urinating on the stairs of the old Assembly building at Khyndai Lad.
Authorities were, however, quick to act by spraying water to clean the area following media coverage of the incident.
It may be noted that the issue is not only confined to the state capital.
Even the iconic Umiam Lake Viewpoint, a popular tourist spot, is plagued with trash.
While visitors admire the lake’s beauty, they are greeted by discarded chip packets and disposable cups scattered across the area.
Concerns are growing that this waste may eventually pollute the Umiam Lake, tarnishing its charm and ecological balance.