Meghalaya: District Admin bans roadside cooking to protect environment

Shillong, Aug 5 (IANS) In a significant step aimed at protecting the environment and promoting sustainable tourism, the East Khasi Hills district administration has prohibited roadside cooking and indiscriminate dumping of waste at tourist destinations, viewpoints and other public places across the district, officials said on Wednesday.

The order, issued by District Magistrate Abhilash Baranwal under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, came into immediate effect following concerns over increasing littering and environmental degradation, particularly along the heavily visited Shillong-Mawkdok-Sohra tourist corridor.

According to the district administration, the practice of cooking on roadsides using firewood, charcoal, LPG cylinders and other fuel sources has led to sanitation problems, traffic congestion and potential fire hazards.

Authorities also noted that the indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste, food leftovers, bottles, cans and other garbage has adversely impacted the natural surroundings and undermined Meghalaya’s image as a clean and responsible tourism destination.

Under the order, cooking on road shoulders, scenic viewpoints and other public spaces has been strictly prohibited. The administration has also imposed a complete ban on littering and the dumping of solid or liquid waste in forests, rivers, streams, drains, roadside areas and other public locations.

Officials said the restrictions were necessary to preserve the ecological balance of the district and maintain the cleanliness of its popular tourist attractions, which receive thousands of visitors every year.

The administration warned that anyone found violating the order would face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with other applicable provisions of law.

The prohibitory order was issued ex parte in view of the urgency of the situation and will remain in force until further directions.

Appealing for public cooperation, the district administration urged tourists, residents, tour operators and other stakeholders to adhere to the new regulations and contribute towards keeping East Khasi Hills free from litter.

Authorities said the initiative is part of broader efforts to preserve the district’s pristine environment while strengthening Meghalaya’s reputation as one of the country’s leading eco-tourism destinations.

–IANS

tdr/dan