Namchi District Undertakes Historic 26-Kilometre Cleanliness Drive to Commemorate 50 Years of Statehood

The drive saw enthusiastic participation from government departments, NGOs, and local driver associations.

The event was spearheaded by Youth For Society, Sikkim in collaboration with DAC Namchi, VOICE NGO, SAVE EARTH Club, and supported by Sarathi MLTDA, Sarathi LTDA, Namchi Taxi Association, SWTDA, NMC Namchi, NJMC Jorethang, Zilla Panchayats, and Jan Kalyan Club.

The cleanliness initiative was carried out under the supervision of District Collector Namchi Ms Anupa Tamling.

She expressed her gratitude to all participating teams for their collective efforts, and urged the public to adopt cleanliness as a daily habit, extending beyond their homes to public spaces.She also acknowledged the vital contributions made by the NGOs and driver associations.

Addressing another pressing issue, she drew attention to the Nasha Mukth Bharat Abhiyan and the importance of collective action in combating drug trafficking. She called for wider support from the public to eliminate the threat and secure a better future for the youth.

Adding to this, Sr SP Namchi Mr Karma Gyamtso Bhutia, shared updates on the district’s anti-drug operations. He reported that thirteen SADA cases have been registered, and twenty peddlers have been apprehended to date, with investigations ongoing.

He reiterated the police’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and encouraged public cooperation in reporting suspicious activity.

VOICE NGO Chief Coordinator Mr Sanjay Rai, praised the inter-departmental coordination and remarked that the event sent a powerful message across the state in celebration of Sikkim’s golden jubilee of statehood. He also shared that the Prime Minister is expected to visit the state as part of the celebrations and urged for similar cleanliness initiatives to be embraced regularly by citizens.

Earlier, Ms Anupa Tamling conducted on-site inspections along the route, visiting areas including Rolu Mandir, local cafeterias, and other public properties. She instructed the responsible stakeholders to maintain cleanliness and ensure timely removal of litter.

Particular concern was raised over careless waste disposal near Rolu Mandir, especially post-marriage ceremonies and around eateries, leading to unhygienic and unpleasant conditions. She appealed to the public, event organisers, and local shop owners to uphold cleanliness standards and properly manage waste disposal.

She warned that individuals or establishments failing to comply with local cleanliness regulations will face fines and penalties, as per existing rules.

Report from DIO Namchi