Over 200 participants from various educational institutions hit the streets on Wednesday clearing it of wastes as part of the Swachh Bharat campaign and in honor of Gandhi Jayanti.
The event organised by Saindur Enviro under the theme “Our Country, Our Environment, Our Responsibility,” brought together enthusiastic NSS volunteers from NEHU, St. Edmund’s College, and Lady Keane College, Shillong, supported by District Authorities and Jiva Care, Shillong.
The cleaning drive targeted key public areas in and around Shillong, focusing on the removal of plastic waste, promoting proper waste disposal, and raising awareness about environmental sustainability. Volunteers actively cleaned streets, parks, and open spaces, showcasing their commitment to the fight against single-use plastics and the broader cause of environmental responsibility.
The event commenced at Mahadev Khola Point, HQ 101 area, Upper Shillong, and continued through to Rhino Point. This effort was a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a clean India, emphasizing that maintaining a clean environment is the responsibility of every citizen.
Director of Saindur Enviro, Vivek Kumar, highlighted the significance of youth involvement in environmental protection. He remarked, “Today’s cleaning drive is not just a symbolic act but a reminder that cleanliness and environmental responsibility start with each one of us. By uniting the energy and passion of our young NSS volunteers, we aim to inspire the community to adopt sustainable habits and take ownership of their surroundings.”
The event also included speeches from college representatives and student leaders, who underscored the importance of the Swachh Bharat mission and urged the public to actively engage in such initiatives.
NSS program officers and coordinators from the participating institutions expressed their pride in the students’ dedication and eagerness to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable India.
The cleaning drive concluded with a pledge-taking ceremony, where participants committed to continuing their efforts towards a cleaner environment and promoting sustainability within their communities.
Other cleaning drives were held in Jowai and by the Border Security Force (BSF). More than 1,500 runners also participated in a Swachhata Run from Raj Bhavan, organised by Raj Bhavan and CBC Shillong.
