By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 4: As part of the commemoration of the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Dorbar Shnong Mawtnum, Ri-Bhoi, joined hands with Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd., Shillong, to organise a cleaning drive in the village under the nationwide campaigns Swachhata Hi Seva and Swachhotsava.
According to a statement here, the event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of nearly 150 community members, including children, youths and elders.
The programme began with a welcome address by secretary of Dorbar Shnong Mawtnum, K. Nongmalieh, who stressed the importance of collective efforts in preserving a clean environment.
On the other hand, Director of Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd., Dr. Vivek Kumar, commended the active involvement of the villagers and underlined that cleanliness is a shared responsibility. “When each of us contributes through small steps, together we can bring about a big change. It is our country, our environment, and our responsibility,” he said.
Dr. Kumar also raised concerns over the dangers of single-use plastics, which, he added, choke rivers, pollute the environment and remain in soil for thousands of years without degrading.
He reminded the gathering about the nationwide ban on such plastics issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), and encouraged the use of compostable and eco-friendly alternatives.
Meanwhile, village headman BH Nongmalieh expressed gratitude to Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd. for supporting the initiative and lauded the participation of community members across age groups. He praised the collective spirit shown by the villagers to ensure cleanliness and sustainability in their surroundings.
“The drive concluded with a renewed commitment from both Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd. and the Dorbar to continue joint efforts for promoting cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental responsibility in the village and beyond,” the statement said.
