Correspondent
PASIGHAT, Jun 26: In a significant step towards environmental conservation and sustainable tourism, the Mebo administration has imposed a ban on littering and dumping of waste along the National Highway stretch between Raneghat and Pongging Viewpoint in East Siang district.
The prohibitory order, issued by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Mebo, Nancy Yirang, aims to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of one of the district's most frequented tourist corridors along the left bank of the Siang river.
According to the administration, indiscriminate disposal of garbage, plastic waste, bottles, food packets, construction debris and other refuse along the highway and surrounding areas had become a growing concern, leading to environmental pollution, public nuisance and degradation of the region's scenic landscape.
The affected stretch, extending from Raneghat Bridge over the Siang River to Bodak village under Mebo sub-division, is a popular destination for tourists and local residents alike, attracting visitors for long drives, cycling, jogging, picnics and sightseeing.
Under the order, throwing, depositing or scattering waste along the highway, roadsides, drains, viewpoints and other public spaces has been strictly prohibited. Visitors have been advised to retain their waste inside their vehicles or dispose of it only at designated collection points.
To ensure effective implementation, the Circle Officer of Mebo, Officer-in-Charge of Mebo Police Station, village authorities of Ayeng and Bodak, Panchayat members and volunteers of the Eco-Clean Mebo Mission (ECMM) have been directed to conduct regular monitoring and enforcement drives.
The administration has warned that violators will face legal action, including fines, prosecution and other penalties under applicable laws. Awareness campaigns will also be carried out by ECMM volunteers, Panchayat representatives, self-help groups and village leaders to promote responsible waste disposal practices among visitors.
The initiative forms part of the broader Eco-Clean Mebo Mission (ECMM), a community-led sustainability and beautification programme covering 17 villages in Mebo Sub-Division. The mission seeks to promote environmental conservation, eco-tourism, biodiversity protection and sustainable livelihood generation through a range of village-specific initiatives.
Led by Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, in collaboration with local administrators and community stakeholders, the mission has gained recognition for innovative projects such as floral village development, bird conservation, organic plantations, wildlife protection and the promotion of indigenous biodiversity.
Officials expressed hope that the latest measure would help maintain the pristine beauty of the Siang valley corridor while encouraging responsible tourism and environmental stewardship among residents and visitors alike.