HT Correspondent
ITANAGAR, July 10: The second phase of the awareness programme and campaign focused on promoting environmental cleanliness and sustainability along the Yopo stream concluded in Itanagar on Thursday.
The initiative, aimed at advancing the vision of a plastic-free Itanagar and fostering green consciousness among residents, was led by Senior Scientist R K Taj of the State Forest Research Institute (SFRI) under the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
Related Posts:
According to an official statement, the campaign was organised by the Soil and Water Conservation (S&WC) Division of the SFRI and was launched in June 2025.
The programme witnessed active participation from various segments of civil society, including forestry internship students from multiple universities and members of non-governmental organisations such as the United Pare Club.
Throughout the campaign, several activities were undertaken to promote environmental responsibility and collective action for ecological restoration.
Addressing the media during the culmination event, Senior Scientist R K Taj urged citizens to adopt sustainable practices in daily life.
“Let us not pluck or damage trees. The trees we plant today are for a better tomorrow — let’s save them,” he said.
He further encouraged the public to reduce their use of plastic and to plant trees in and around their homes to contribute to the state’s environmental goals.
A major highlight of the campaign’s final phase was the plantation of over 500 edible fruit-bearing saplings along the Yopo stream.
The plantation drive covered the stretch between Legi Complex and IG Park in Itanagar.
The choice of fruit-bearing species was aimed at reinforcing the dual objectives of ecological restoration and local nutritional support.
The statement noted that the campaign served not only as an awareness drive but also as a call to action for safeguarding Arunachal Pradesh’s natural heritage.
It underscored the importance of collaboration among government institutions, community-based organisations, students, and citizens in building a resilient and greener future.
Officials at SFRI expressed hope that the campaign would inspire more long-term, community-driven initiatives dedicated to environmental preservation and sustainability across the state.
