The village of Lumdaitkhla Bhoirymbong, in Ri-Bhoi, is struggling to deal with its growing waste problem as it lacks a solid waste management facility.
This predicament has left the Dorbar Shnong facing an uphill struggle to maintain cleanliness within its boundaries. As a temporary and unhappy measure, the village has resorted to disposing of waste products from both the market and residential areas at Kurkalang playground until a proper site is found.
In an effort to raise awareness among the residents, the Dorbar Shnong today organised a community meeting, the primary objective of which was to inform the villagers about a proposed solid waste management plant for the village, which is designed to adhere to scientifically sound waste disposal methods.
The meeting took place at Lumdaitkhla and featured Banbhalang Diengdoh as guest speaker. Diengdoh, from Shillong’s Umpling neighbourhood, is experienced in the field of solid waste management. He shared insights into the advantages of solid waste management plants, emphasising their potential to enhance cleanliness and provide employment opportunities for the village’s youth.
Village leaders informed that the Dorbar has already submitted a proposal for such a facility. As a preliminary step, the village has initiated construction of fencing, provided by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, around the proposed site.
The proposal had been sent to the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi, with the hope of obtaining funding through the Swachh Bharat Mission to implement the plant in a way that adheres to scientific practices and which will safeguard public health and the environment.
Addressing earlier reports, the village leaders clarified that the land in question falls under the jurisdiction of Lumdaitkhla and not the neighbouring village of Lumsohpeing.
Furthermore, they urged residents not to oppose the establishment of the solid waste management plant and to collaborate with the Dorbar Shnong. Without this crucial initiative, the village will continue to struggle with the absence of a proper waste disposal site, worsening the already serious situation.
