Arunachal: Prohibitory order issued against littering along Raneghat-Pongging viewpoint highway
Reported by Maksam Tayeng
Pasighat: The Mebo administration in Arunachal Pradesh's East Siang district has prohibited littering and dumping of waste along the National Highway stretch from Raneghat to Pongging Viewpoint on the left bank of the Siang River to protect the area's environment and maintain public hygiene.
The prohibitory order, issued by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Nancy Yirang on June 18, came after authorities observed indiscriminate dumping of garbage, plastic waste, bottles, food packets, construction debris and other refuse along the route.
The highway corridor between Raneghat Bridge over the Siang River and Bodak village in Mebo Sub-Division is a popular destination for tourists and local residents for long drives, jogging, cycling, picnics and other recreational activities. The administration said immediate preventive measures were required to preserve the area's scenic beauty and environmental sustainability.
Under the order, throwing, depositing or dumping any form of waste along the highway, adjoining roadsides, drains, viewpoints and public spaces has been prohibited. Visitors have been directed to retain waste inside their vehicles or dispose of it only at designated waste collection points.
The Circle Officer of Mebo, the Officer-in-Charge of Mebo Police Station, local authorities of Ayeng and Bodak villages, Panchayat members and volunteers of the Eco-Clean Mebo Mission (ECMM) have been directed to enforce the order through regular monitoring and inspections.
The administration warned that violators would face legal action, including fines, prosecution and other penalties under applicable laws.
Members of the Eco-Clean Mebo Mission, Panchayat representatives, self-help groups and village volunteers have also been asked to conduct awareness campaigns on responsible waste disposal.
The order has come into force with immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders.
The Eco-Clean Mebo Mission is a community-based initiative covering 17 villages in Mebo Sub-Division. It focuses on environmental conservation, eco-tourism, economic sustainability and biodiversity protection through village-level programmes and awareness initiatives.