ZIRO, Nov 29: The Lower Subansiri district administration led by Deputy Commissioner Vivek HP on Thursday organized a crucial meeting at the Mini Secretariat here, bringing together administrative officers, community-based organizations (CBOs), and local leaders to address key challenges and envision a sustainable future for Ziro Valley.
The DC, in his opening remarks, underscored the importance of collective responsibility in fostering the region’s development. The discussions culminated in transformative resolutions reflecting the administration’s commitment to progress.
In a bid to promote public safety, the DC, against the backdrop of recent Seppa hospital violent incident, proposed for restricting the use of sharp tools, such as dao, in public spaces like hospitals and offices. While acknowledging their cultural significance, he emphasized the need to mitigate risks of accidents and criminal misuse in today’s modern context.
Raising concerns over deforestation in Ziro Valley, the DC urged the Forest Department to enforce forest conservation laws strictly. The unchecked cutting of trees has disrupted rainfall patterns and increased flooding, jeopardizing agricultural practices. Invoking the principle of Intergenerational Equity as defined by the United Nations, he stressed the importance of preserving Ziro’s natural resources for future generations.
Also highlighting the environmental hazards posed by unregulated mining in the valley, the DC called for immediate corrective actions to protect the region’s ecology, ensure agricultural sustainability, and safeguard the livelihoods of local farmers.
While noting that the Ziro Valley, as a key tourist destination, thrives on its unique charm and pristine environment, the DC appealed to stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices, ensuring that the valley remains a magnet for visitors while maintaining its ecological balance.
Addressing the challenges of unplanned and unsafe construction, he urged the adoption of scientific planning principles tailored to Ziro’s seismic sensitivity. Drawing inspiration from urban models like Chandigarh and Bhutan, he advocated for a cohesive development framework that prioritizes safety and aesthetics.
In a major initiative, the administration announced plans to make Ziro a plastic-free zone by February 20, 2025. Supported by CSR funding from PGCIL (Power Grid Corporation India Limited), the project will empower Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM) to produce and distribute reusable cloth bags. Minimal user fees will ensure sustained adoption by households and businesses.
Highlighting the urgent need to address drug abuse, the DC called for collaborative efforts among NGOs and CBOs. He encouraged a united, selfless approach to combating this menace through awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs.
To ensure effective implementation of these initiatives, the DC proposed forming a dedicated committee to review progress bi-monthly and address emerging challenges collaboratively.
The DC lauded the district’s electrical department for having 80% female staff but expressed concern over their limited involvement in technical duties. Encouraging gender parity, he urged women employees to embrace tasks traditionally performed by their male counterparts, setting a new benchmark for empowerment.
Meanwhile, the Apatani Women’s Association of Ziro (AWAZ) led by Dr Subu Tasso Kampu expressed its profound gratitude to the district administration for its visionary leadership and actionable initiatives.
As a proactive community organization, AWAZ is committed to supporting these measures by fostering awareness, mobilizing grassroots participation, and advocating sustainable development. Together, we aim to transform Ziro Valley into a model of harmony, resilience, and progress, upholding its legacy for generations to come, it said.