Meghalaya’s first Aquatic Waste Sculpture comes up at Lake View Point
From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, Nov 14: Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira on Friday revealed that the Meghalaya government has proposed Umiam Lake as one of the sites under the Centre’s plan to develop 50 world-class tourist destinations, as he inaugurated the state’s first Aquatic Waste Sculpture at the Lake View Point, Umiam, Ri-Bhoi district.
The sculpture, conceptualised by the Smart Village Movement (SVM) Meghalaya and funded by the District Tourism Promotion Society (DTPS), Nongpoh, has been crafted entirely from waste materials collected from Umiam Lake. The initiative aims to transform waste into art, promote responsible tourism, and foster community pride.
The inaugural event was attended by Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, Meghalaya Tourism Department Director Brenda Lee Pakyntein, officials and residents of Umiam village.
Addressing the gathering, Shira praised the collaboration among SVM, DTPS, local startups, artists and the district administration in bringing the project to life. He described Umiam Lake—created in 1960—as an iconic landmark attracting thousands of visitors annually, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by urbanisation and irresponsible waste disposal.
“The waste sculpture is a powerful expression created using waste collected from Umiam. It reminds every visitor that responsible tourism begins with small actions,” he said.
The tourism minister added that transforming waste into art demonstrates how creativity can turn challenges into opportunities and strengthen Meghalaya’s identity as a responsible tourism destination.
Baranwal, on the other hand, highlighted the sculpture’s dual message, showcasing the consequences of careless waste disposal and the potential of recycled materials.
He stressed the need for community-driven sustainability practices and reiterated Umiam Lake’s importance as a major attraction in Ri Bhoi.
Meanwhile, Pakyntein said the initiative aligns with global tourism mandates advocating sustainability and environmental responsibility.
She emphasised that tourism development must safeguard natural resources, while noting that Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage makes environmental preservation essential.
She added that although the Aquatic Waste Sculpture is a small, localised project, it demonstrates how sustainability concepts are reaching grassroots communities.
Pakyntein said the Tourism department will continue supporting such initiatives through its various schemes, including new community-led projects.
