A community outreach initiative dedicated to environmental awareness took place in Byrnihat under the leadership of the Meghalaya State Judicial Academy (MSJA). Working under the aegis of the Meghalaya High Court, the academy organised the one-day event titled 'Right to Clean Air: From Statistics to Action'. The gathering focused on addressing worsening local air quality and encouraging resident-driven solutions to protect environmental health.
Administrative Coordination and Opening Remarks
The outreach took place at the Multipurpose Hall in Byrnihat, situated in Ri-Bhoi district, in joint partnership with the Office of the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Umling Community and Rural Development (C&RD) Block. Organisers designed the initiative to bring civic responsibility and public health to the forefront of community discussions.
Director of the MSJA, K.M. Lyngdoh Nongbri, attended the proceedings. Eric Kevin Dkhar, BDO of Umling C&RD Block, formally welcomed the attendees, while N.I. Dkhar, Deputy Director of the judicial academy, delivered the introductory address setting the context for the deliberations.
Scientific Analysis and Regulatory Frameworks
Subject experts from the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board led specialised informational segments during the event. Wanshanbor R. Kharkrang, serving as Chief Environmental Engineer, conducted a technical presentation examining the Statistical Report on Air Pollution in Byrnihat. In a subsequent briefing, Chief Scientist S. Swer walked participants through the provisions outlined in the Waste Management Rules, 2026.
Adding further perspective on community-led interventions, members from YoMariang, the Environmental and Circular Systems Division of ISMG, addressed the room. Their presentations detailed how grassroots civic groups can curb atmospheric pollution through sustainable waste practices and circular systems.
Interactive Challenges and Resource Distribution
The programme incorporated hands-on educational activities designed for youth and residents. Participants engaged in student hotspot mapping exercises, a waste segregation contest, and an interactive waste and pollution detective puzzle. Alongside informational video demonstrations covering waste disposal and emissions, organisers distributed vehicle waste pouches to attendees to promote cleaner transit habits.
