Kaza ADC leads cleanliness drive, urges residents to shun plastic

Shikha Simtia, Kaza Additional Deputy Commissioner, and Member Secretary of the Special Area Development Authority (SADA), led a large-scale cleanliness drive across the Kaza subdivision in the Lahaul and Spiti district on Wednesday, reaffirming that keeping the region clean and beautiful was the collective responsibility of all residents.

Speaking about the initiative, ADC Shikha said the cleanliness campaign covered several key locations, including the ADC office, SDM office, Civil Hospital, Kaza Monastery, Police Lines, bus stand, market, Kaza Nala and adjoining areas. Locals were also sensitised about maintaining cleanliness and the importance of waste disposal.

During the drive, nearly 250 kilograms of waste—mostly different types of plastics—was collected. ADC stated that the collected waste would be segregated and disposed of appropriately in accordance with environmental norms. Highlighting the challenges faced during winter, the ADC noted that waste accumulation becomes a major issue in the colder months. She urged residents to not throw garbage on roads or in open areas and instead use the designated waste collection points identified by the SADA. Proper disposal at these locations would also facilitate easier waste segregation, she said.

To prevent littering, CCTV cameras have been installed at key spots designated for garbage disposal. The ADC warned that anyone found dumping waste at non-designated locations would face penalties and may be fined. This measure, she said, was essential to strengthen monitoring and discourage irresponsible behaviour.

The ADC further urged people to minimise the use of plastics in daily life to protect the environment as well as to keep Kaza clean and aesthetically pleasing. Emphasising the importance of personal responsibility, she encouraged citizens to adopt cleanliness habits in and around their homes and workplaces.

Terming the cleanliness drive as a positive step towards maintaining a clean and hygienic town, ADC Shikha said such initiatives played a significant role in environmental conservation. She called on the community to contribute actively not only towards maintaining cleanliness but also toward broader environmental protection efforts.