KHALTSE : Stressing the importance of community participation in environmental conservation and public hygiene, Deputy Commissioner Sham, Kunzes Angmo (JKAS), on Thursday flagged off a cleanliness rally in Khaltse under the theme “Swachh Gaon, Surakshit Jalvayu”, urging citizens to play an active role in building cleaner and more climate-resilient communities.
The rally, organised as part of the national mission for environmental sustainability, was flagged off in the presence of Sub-Divisional Magistrate Khaltse, Mohd. Sharif, and witnessed the participation of government officials, political representatives, traders, community leaders and local residents.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner said that maintaining clean surroundings was not only essential for public health and hygiene but also contributed to environmental protection and climate resilience. She emphasised that lasting change could only be achieved through collective responsibility and sustained community engagement.
The rally commenced from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Sham, and passed through Khaltse Market and adjoining areas, spreading awareness about sanitation, cleanliness and responsible waste management practices.
Earlier, Block Development Officer Khaltse briefed participants on the objectives of the campaign and highlighted the need for greater public involvement in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
Officers and officials, led by the Deputy Commissioner, joined hands with leaders of various political parties, Numberdar Khaltse, representatives of the Merchant Association, members of the Women Alliance, villagers, shopkeepers and hostel residents in carrying out cleanliness activities across public spaces.
Participants undertook waste collection and sanitation activities while promoting the message of community ownership and environmental responsibility. The campaign sought to encourage behavioural change and strengthen public awareness regarding sustainable waste management practices.
Officials said the cleanliness drive forms part of the district administration’s broader efforts to foster a cleaner, healthier and environmentally sustainable Sham through public outreach, awareness generation and community mobilisation.
Similar cleanliness drives were also conducted across all Panchayats of Block Skurbuchan and Block Singaylalok in accordance with the district-wide schedule, extending the campaign’s reach to rural areas and reinforcing the message of collective environmental stewardship.
