Cleaning drive at Iew Sohra with MLCU students kick-starts campaign
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 28: Hima Sohra has launched the “Green, Clean and Safe Sohra” campaign, aimed at preserving the town’s natural beauty, improving tourism management, promoting responsible waste disposal, and ensuring the safety of both visitors and residents.
The campaign began with a large-scale cleaning drive from Iew Sohra to all villages under Hima Sohra, with active participation from local communities and students of the Tourism Department, Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU).
At Mawkdok, a temporary Tourist Facilitation Booth was set up to distribute leaflets on visitor dos and don’ts, along with waste bags for proper litter disposal. Hima Sohra also installed waste bins along the Mawkdok-Sohra road and put up signboards outlining rules and regulations for both tourists and locals.
Former Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh formally launched the campaign in the presence of the Syiem of Hima Sohra, Freeman Sing Syiem, Sohra MLA Gavin Miguel Mylliem, Myntris, officials, and dignitaries — marking a unified commitment to safeguard Sohra’s environment.
The event also introduced the Hima Sohra Tourist Assistance Team — 50 members representing all villages under the Syiemship. The team will assist tourists, ensure safety, and provide accurate information about destinations, thereby enhancing visitor experiences while protecting Sohra’s cultural and ecological integrity.
On launch day, Sohra recaptured the pristine charm of the 1980s and 1990s, set against clear skies and drifting clouds. While the start has been encouraging, Hima Sohra emphasized that the real challenge lies in sustaining the momentum. It urged citizens, visitors, and stakeholders to act responsibly to ensure Sohra remains a clean, green, and safe destination for generations to come.
Meanwhile, an MoU was also signed between the Syiem of Hima Sohra and the Registrar of MLCU to collaborate on research and studies addressing the challenges and opportunities in tourism at Sohra.
