INDIA: Voice of Environment (VoE), a leading environmental research group working towards a cleaner and greener Guwahati under the “Mission Clean Green Assam” initiative, collaborated with Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) to organize a cleanliness drive and awareness program at the Nabagraha Temple on May 17, 2024. The temple is located in the Chitrachal Pahar area of Guwahati city, the capital of Assam.
Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) Takes the Helm in Nabagraha Temple Initiative
GMC officials, including high-ranking members like the Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioners from concerned divisions, the GMC Councilor of Ward No. 34, the Executive Engineer, Assistant Engineers, JTO/JE, and other GMC personnel participated in the drive. They were joined by environmentalists from VoE, led by Moharana Choudhury, Bhaskar Hazarika, Anjana Gogoi, and others.
Also Read: Comedian Shyam Rangeela Files Nomination Against PM Modi in Varanasi
Cleaning and Raising Awareness
The day began with a meeting at the temple premises, where the importance of cleanliness was emphasized following a brief discussion with the temple priests. The team then cleaned the main temple area, surrounding grounds, and the road leading to the temple. After the cleanup, GMC officials held a public meeting to discuss cleanliness with devotees, visitors, shopkeepers, and local residents.
Creating a Sustainable Future
This initiative aligns with VoE’s ongoing efforts to make Guwahati’s iconic landmarks, like Kamakhya Temple and Basistha Temple, plastic-free and eco-friendly tourist destinations. Their goal is to create a clean and sustainable environment that improves public health, generates local jobs, and enhances the overall beauty of the temple.
“We as a part of the Voice of Environment team always aim to motivate all the stakeholders in the Nabagraha Temple premises like the local shopkeepers, visitors, priests of the temple, the temple administration, and the local municipal officials to collectively work towards keeping the temple complex sanitized and clean in the most sustainable way,” said Moharana Choudhury of Voice of Environment.
The project aims to achieve multiple benefits:
- Cleanliness and hygiene: Improve the overall cleanliness of the temple premises and surrounding areas.
- Sustainability: Promote eco-friendly practices and reduce plastic usage.
- Livelihood generation: Create job opportunities through sustainable practices.
- Aesthetic appeal: Enhance the beauty and attractiveness of the temple complex.
- Biodiversity conservation: Protect the rich biodiversity surrounding the temple.
- Public awareness: Raise awareness about the importance of cleanliness and environmental responsibility.
A Blueprint for the Region
This initiative by VoE and GMC sets a strong example for other cities and religious sites across India. By promoting cleanliness, sustainability, and community engagement, the project paves the way for a greener future for Guwahati and serves as an inspiration for the entire region.
VoE aims to create a lasting impact by fostering “mass citizen consciousness” about reducing plastic usage and promoting sustainable practices. This initiative sends a strong message about the importance of cleanliness and environmental responsibility, not just for Guwahati, but for the entire region and beyond.
Also Read: Hollywood Producer Ashok Amritraj Unveils ‘God Must Die’ Poster at Cannes
