In a move to curb rising environmental degradation, East Khasi Hills District Magistrate Smti. Rosetta Mary Kurbah, IAS, has issued a strict order prohibiting rampant littering by tourists along the Shillong-Sohra road and across major tourist hotspots in the district.
Citing reports of “indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste, food packaging, and other waste materials” by visitors, especially at popular viewpoints and attractions, the District Magistrate noted that such acts are severely affecting the “aesthetic beauty and cleanliness” of the region. The order warns that if such behavior is allowed to continue, it will significantly “pollute the environment.”
Exercising powers under Section 163 of the BNSS, Smti. Kurbah stated, “I, Smti. Rosetta Mary Kurbah, IAS, District Magistrate, East Khasi Hills, Shillong, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me under Section 163 BNSS, do hereby prohibit rampant littering along the Shillong-Sohra road in particular and in other popular tourist spots across Shillong City and the District.”
She further added, “Any violation of the said order will attract penal provisions under Section 223 of the BNS and any other Section as deemed fit and appropriate.”
Given the pressing nature of the issue, the order has been passed ex parte and shall come into effect immediately, remaining in force until further notice.
