Nongpoh, Oct 23: An initiative to improve sanitation and environmental cleanliness was launched in Byrnihat today, with the Ri-Bhoi town receiving six electric-powered waste collection vehicles to serve 20 villages and three mechanical road sweepers to improve road cleanliness.
The vehicles were provided through the office of the Umling Block Development Officer with the aim of transforming Byrnihat and ensuring proper collection and disposal of waste.
The six waste collection vehicles have been sanctioned at a cost of Rs 57,44,459, while the three road sweepers have been allocated Rs 77.999 lakh.
The initiative is funded under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) and the office of the Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner.
Dustbins were also distributed to households in Byrnihat, accompanied by awareness on the importance of segregating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste to facilitate proper waste management and disposal.
The vehicles were officially launched by cabinet minister and Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun as the chief guest, in the presence of Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Saini and others.
Speaking at the programme, Sohtun acknowledged that Byrnihat had earned a reputation as one of the most polluted areas. He said the government is now committed to improving air quality and addressing waste management challenges by ensuring that waste from villages is collected and transported to designated disposal sites.
The minister expressed his desire to see a significant transformation in the cleanliness and sanitation of Byrnihat, adding that the initiative reflects the efforts of the Deputy Commissioner’s office, MSPCB and local communities to work together towards a cleaner environment.
He also urged the public, particularly village leaders, to take proper care of the newly provided vehicles and ensure they are used for their intended purposes. Citing instances where government-provided vehicles had reportedly been diverted for other activities in the past, he stressed the need for responsible use and collective participation.
