Arunachal Pradesh: Itanagar cleans up, pledges continued effort for sustainable city

A CORRESPONDENT

ITANAGAR: A large-scale social service and river cleanup program took place today across several key locations in Itanagar, including the Gandhi Market area, Police Station premises, and Legi complex. The initiative, spearheaded by Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) Ward No-10 and the Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR), in partnership with the Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society, Itanagar Smart City, and the NSS unit of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), mobilized over 150 volunteers.

Participants included local residents, police personnel, firefighters, and women police officers. The primary focus was the Yagamso River at the Legi stretch, which had become heavily polluted with municipal solid waste. Volunteers worked diligently to remove accumulated garbage and debris.

Following the cleanup, an awareness program was held. Capital Deputy Commissioner Talo Potom commended Corporator Yukar Yaro for her ongoing commitment to Ward No-10’s cleanliness.

“A clean environment is crucial for a healthy society,” Potom stated, emphasizing the need for a drug-free capital.

He warned of strict action against drug abuse and littering, urging public cooperation in creating a crime-free and environmentally sustainable Itanagar.

Capital Superintendent of Police (SP) Rohit Rajbir Singh echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of sustainable cleanliness practices.  “Cleanliness must be more than a one-time event. It needs to be a daily habit. We must move beyond symbolic gestures and cultivate responsible waste disposal,” he added.

IMC Commissioner Kego Jilen detailed the IMC’s waste management role and outlined penalties for public littering, citing relevant legal sections.“The IMC is dedicated to a clean Itanagar,” Jilen asserted, noting the twice-daily garbage truck service and appealing for responsible usage. He advocated public cooperation as essential component for clean and healthy society. Garbage in our rivers and surroundings is not only unsightly but also poses serious health risks.

Corporator Yukar Yaro expressed gratitude for community participation and requested increased support from the District Administration.  “My goal is to make Ward No-10 the cleanest in Itanagar,” she said, highlighting her commitment to this cause. She sought cooperation of all departments and residents. I commend the YMCR for their dedication to environmental awareness.

Koj Tade Gombo, OC Fire Station, addressed the gathering, highlighting fire safety concerns and outlining the fire department’s preparedness measures.

YMCR Vice Chairman Keyom Doni expressed concern about the volume of household waste collected. “While YMCR can raise awareness and organize cleanups,” Doni explained, “the ultimate responsibility lies with each individual. We must unite to protect our environment.” Participating RGU NSS students received certificates of participation.

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