Shillong, Jul 31: Sweep Away Rubbish (SAR), a voluntary community-based organisation, was officially inaugurated on Thursday at the Mawsynram Border Area College to promote cleanliness, environmental responsibility, and public participation in waste management.
The programme was chaired by Healthy Marbaniang, who stressed the need for collective action to keep the village clean and sustainable.
SAR Adviser Dr. P. Marlon Brando Rani introduced the organisation and unveiled its logo. He outlined SAR’s vision to spread environmental awareness and advocate responsible waste management practices.
Mawsynram headman R.H. Rapsang commended SAR as a timely initiative. He appreciated that the group sought approval from the dorbar shnong before starting work and urged members to continue working closely with traditional institutions.
College Principal Dr. B.J. Mawrie suggested that Mawsynram now needs a scientifically designed waste disposal system and proper placement of dustbins for effective segregation and collection.
Mawsynram Police officer in-charge Elias Marak said cleanliness begins at the foundation. He called for stronger coordination between SAR, Dorbar Shnong and Hima Mawsynram.
SAR members also presented their objectives and future programmes during the event.
The group adopted the slogan “Ka shnong ong ïuï; ka ongkitkhlieh ong ïuï” — “Our Village, Our Responsibility.”
The programme was attended by executive members of the dorbar shnong, Seng Kynthei, Seng Samla, SHGs, teachers and students.
