Ampati (Meghalaya): Authorities and local communities joined hands on Tuesday to carry out a massive cleaning and awareness drive along the Tura-Damalgre road in Meghalaya, particularly focusing on the Wakkagre and Lower Damalgre stretches that have become notorious for illegal garbage dumping.
The initiative, led by the Rerapara C&RD Block in collaboration with the Damalgre United Youth Welfare Society (DUYWS), came in response to mounting public complaints about the unhygienic conditions and stench caused by indiscriminate dumping.
Taking advantage of the isolated surroundings, individuals—allegedly including residents from Tura and nearby areas—have been using the roadside as an unofficial dumping ground, creating both an eyesore and a health hazard.
Senior officials, including R.Z.D. Shira, ADC & PD, DRDA, South West Garo Hills, and Armand Ch. Momin, AC, SWGH & BDO of Rerapara, supervised the drive, underscoring the administration’s seriousness in tackling the issue.
Personnel from Damalgre Police Station, Village Employment Councils, local women’s groups, youth volunteers, and village leaders also took part.
ALSO READ: Meghalaya taps Japan’s soaring demand for care workers, eyes global job market
The campaign resulted in the collection of more than 50 bags of garbage, which were later transported for proper disposal with the help of Tura Municipal Board vans.
Officials hailed the active participation of communities while warning that strict action would be taken against future violators.
Authorities further appealed to the public to exercise civic responsibility, stressing that collective action is key to maintaining cleaner and healthier public spaces.
