Meghalaya CM takes a giant leap towards 'Swachh Bharat', flags off waste collection e-vehicles

To achieve the objectives of Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen), Meghalaya's Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma launched and handed over 207 Waste Collection e-Vehicles to various blocks in East Jaintia Hills, Eastern West Khasi Hills, East Khasi Hills, and West Jaintia Hills. The ceremony, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, PHE Minister Marcuise N Marak, Umroi MLA Damanbait Lamare, and MDC Umroi, marked a pivotal moment in the state's commitment to cleanliness.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, addressing the gathering, expressed pride in the rapid progress achieved in just nine months with the state touching an impressive 84.33% in ODF Plus from a mere 10%. He stated the government's dedication and the department's commitment to working in saturation mode to secure a position among the top ten states in cleanliness.

Highlighting the importance of community participation, Sangma stated, "Distribution of e-Vehicles to different communities is a step forward, ensuring government collaboration with citizens. Working together with a sense of purpose and passion can make a visible difference."

Furthermore, Chief Minister Sangma announced a quarterly initiative where the government and society would join hands to clean towns and villages. He stressed the need to revive the cultural and traditional values of cleanliness and hygiene, embedding them in the youth for a cleaner and healthier future.

Minister Marcuise M Marak outlined the state's ambitious plans for 2024-2025, including achieving 100% ODF Plus, installing over 1 lakh individual household latrines, establishing community sanitary complexes, and implementing fecal sludge management units. The minister also stated the commitment to environmental sustainability with the setup of Govardhan and Plastic Waste Management units across the state.