TAWANG, 24 Aug: A 'review-cum-coordination meeting' with members of the fact-finding committee constituted to survey and inspect drinking water sources supplying water to Tawang township was convened by Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo in her office chamber here on Monday.
The meeting reviewed the report submitted by the committee and the action taken by the agencies concerned for cleaning and protecting areas where activities could potentially pollute drinking water sources.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Leta, representatives of the Tawang Brigade and Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the DDSE, the PHED executive engineer, and Monpa Mimang Tsogpa (MMT) secretary Sangey Phuntso Nguimo, among others.
During the meeting, the deputy commissioner reviewed the findings and observations contained in the fact-finding committee's report. She also sought inputs from MMT social service secretary Tsering Dhondup, based on his repeated visits to the drinking water source areas. Proper disposal of mud and other wastes during construction, and widening of roads were also discussed.
After hearing suggestions from the committee members and stakeholders, the deputy commissioner asked the Tawang Brigade representative, Colonel Gaurav, to "pursue the establishment of a separate material recovery facility (MRF) for the Army."
She also stressed the need for immediate construction of septic tanks and soak pits wherever required, particularly to prevent contamination of drinking water sources.
Emphasising on responsible tourism and waste management, the deputy commissioner urged the taxi union to ensure that vehicles carrying tourists to various destinations bring back the waste generated during visits, and that no littering is allowed at tourist spots.
She further directed that taxi operators be reminded to compulsorily carry waste bins and oxygen cylinders in their vehicles. She assured that the district administration would facilitate necessary training for taxi operators, if required, to strengthen safety and responsible tourism practices.
MMT secretary Nguimo suggested installation of awareness and warning signboards against littering at appropriate locations, particularly near environmentally sensitive areas and drinking water sources.
MMT social service secretary Tsering Dhondup raised concern over stray animals roaming freely in the market and township areas, pointing out that they pose a risk of traffic accidents and require appropriate intervention.
The representatives of the Army suggested introducing a system of monthly recognition or felicitation of the cleanest colony to encourage community participation and promote cleanliness across Tawang township.
As part of the follow-up action, it was decided that a mass social service from Nagula to Chuje will be conducted on 29 August. The cleanliness drive will be undertaken by the MMT, in collaboration with the district administration, Tawang Brigade, Border Roads Organisation, and market welfare committees.
The meeting reiterated the need for coordinated efforts by government agencies, security forces, community organisations, transport operators and citizens to protect Tawang's drinking water sources, strengthen waste-management practices, and maintain a clean, safe and environmentally responsible Tawang. (DIPRO)
