Itanagar: Commemorating World Nature Conservation Day, two prominent NGOs, namely Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society and Youth Mission for Clean River, collaborated with the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation Limited to organize a special cleanliness drive at the revered Itanagar Gompa here.
The event, part of the Yagamso River Rejuvenation Project (YRRP), aimed to uphold the sanctity of the Buddhist shrine and promote awareness about the significance of maintaining a clean environment.
The Itanagar Gompa, a cherished site for Buddhists and a popular tourist destination within the capital complex, became the focal point of the cleanliness efforts. Volunteers from various backgrounds actively participated in the initiative, zealously cleaning the premises from the main gate to the cafeteria area.
The event received an overwhelming response from citizens, reflecting their strong sense of responsibility in preserving this valuable public asset.
Despite unfavorable weather conditions, dedicated volunteers gathered at the monastery and wholeheartedly engaged in the clean-up. Over time, this iconic location had accumulated a significant amount of litter. However, the collective efforts of the volunteers showcased their civic consciousness and commitment to maintaining an immaculate environment for the benefit of all.
YRRP coordinator, Prem Taba, underscored the importance of preserving the cleanliness and tranquility of the Gompa.
While acknowledging the role played by the Tawang Monastery, Itanagar Buddhist Cultural Society and caretakers, Taba emphasized that every citizen bears the responsibility of keeping the place free of garbage.
Emphasizing the collective ownership of public assets, he urged individuals to take proactive measures in safeguarding this revered site.
During the clean-up, a disheartening discovery was made. YRRP assistant coordinator, Keyom Doni, revealed the presence of intravenous drug abuse and discarded Meth substances scattered across the premises.
Expressing concern over the impact of drug addiction on the youth and the community at large, Doni called for immediate action to raise awareness about the perils of drug abuse. He urged the competent authorities to take necessary measures to combat this issue among youngsters effectively.
A substantial amount of garbage, equivalent to a truckload, was removed from the monastery premises, underscoring the pressing need for continuous efforts to maintain the site’s cleanliness.
Doni also earnestly appealed to all visitors of the Gompa to treat it with the utmost respect and care.
As a sacred place and a region rich in biodiversity, preserving it for future generations should be a shared commitment of the entire community.
Also read: Community spirit shines on Itanagar’s Yagamso River for World Forest Day cleanup
