The CECC team during inspection to Sanuorü, Kohima on May 1. (Morung Photo)
Legislators conduct river inspection in Kohima; warn of strict action if dumping continues
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 1
The Committee on Environment and Climate Change (CECC) has issued a stern warning to citizens against the indiscriminate disposal of waste into rivers in Kohima.
Speaking to media persons after conducting a spot verification of three rivers in the capital, CECC Chairperson Achumbemo Kikon stressed on the need for immediate behavioural change. “Random disposal of waste into rivers must be stop henceforth,” he stated firmly.
The CECC, a committee constituted by the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), includes members Zhaleo Rio, Mhathung Yanthan, Hekani Jakhalu, Dr. Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhutso, and Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, in addition to Kikon.
“The biggest challenge today is environment,” said Kikon, noting that the 14th House of the NLA is taking the issue of environmental degradation seriously, with the endorsement of Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio.
Formed in February this year, the Committee held its first meeting and thereafter resolved to inspect rivers in Kohima as part of its mission to promote cleanliness and environmental stewardship. “We must keep our river clean,” Kikon reiterated, calling upon all citizens to actively participate in cleaning and preserving rivers.
He further appealed to residents of Kohima not to throw waste into rivers “from today onwards” and urged people not to discharge septic tank effluent directly into rivers.
As part of its broader plan, the Committee will also be visiting other districts to raise awareness on environmental concerns and to promote a cleaner Nagaland.
Kikon informed that the Committee will conduct a series of meetings and, based on findings, will recommend necessary measures to the government for “swift, immediate, prompt action.” He also disclosed that around 17 line departments have already been identified to collaborate in the effort to improve environmental conditions and combat climate change.
Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio, who is also a member of the Committee, said the department will soon be undertaking four projects in Kohima under the directive of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). These projects aim to intercept and divert polluted and contaminated water.
“Four projects are coming up on each direction—West, East, North, South,” he said, adding that water can be treated and clean water released back into the river.
For Kohima, the total project cost is estimated to be around Rs. 20 crore. Rio also mentioned that similar projects will be initiated in Dimapur and other districts across the state.
He echoed the appeal made by Kikon, urging citizens “not to throw the garbage in the rivers and streams.”
During today’s inspection, the CECC team, accompanied by officials from the NLA, the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department, and the Kohima Municipal Council, also visited the Solid Waste Management Plants at Lerie and Meriema.
Helievio Solo, Chairman of the Kohima Village Council (KVC), was present at the Sanuorii site and assured the Committee of full support in their ongoing efforts toward environmental sanitation.
