MLA launches drive to keep Lahaul-Spiti clean

In a significant step towards maintaining cleanliness and promoting environmental sustainability in the tribal district of Lahaul-Spiti, a new initiative was officially launched today from the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang, on the Manali-Leh highway.

The programme is aimed at managing waste generated by tourists visiting the picturesque region. Under the initiative, spearheaded by Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana, cotton bags will be distributed to all tourists entering the region. The bags are intended for the collection of solid waste generated during their visit. The tourists will be encouraged to return the filled bags at the end of their trip and the waste will then be sent for recycling. Arrangements have been made for the collection and recycling of the waste.

The programme is a collaborative effort involving the district administration, local panchayats, residents and NGOs.

Speaking at the launch, MLA Anuradha Rana expressed her commitment to making the district a model of eco-friendly tourism. “This is not just a cleanliness drive. It’s a movement to instill awareness and responsibility among all stakeholders,” she said while distributing cotton bags to tourists.

She announced that a similar campaign will soon be rolled out in the Spiti region, emphasising that preserving the natural beauty is a shared responsibility. The initiative has been widely appreciated.