Mass drainage cleanliness drive held in Kohima

In a bid to promote a cleaner and healthier environment, the Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB), in collaboration with the Kohima District Administration, Kohima Municipal Council (KMC), ward councillors and colony authorities, organised a mass drainage cleanliness drive along the Seicierü River and its upper tributaries on February 28.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, said the initiative was positively reciprocated by district authorities after being proposed by NPCB. He stressed that the success of such exercises depends on teamwork and collective community participation. Raising concerns over the widespread use of septic soak pits, he cautioned that Kohima’s location in a high-risk seismic zone makes such practices dangerous, as they can destabilise soil and compromise building foundations. He further warned that direct sewage discharge into public drains poses severe environmental and health risks, urging residents to adopt professional cesspool services instead.
The DC noted that while visitors often praise Kohima’s natural air and water quality, they also express disappointment over sanitation and hygiene standards. Quoting the proverb “cleanliness is next to godliness,” he called upon citizens to strive for a safer, cleaner urban environment. He also suggested that KMC councillors develop a comprehensive master plan to modernise Kohima’s drainage system.
NPCB Scientist, Yanathung Kithan, remarked that accumulated waste does not dissipate naturally without human intervention, making the cleanup essential. He highlighted the legal gravity of the situation, pointing out that the state government has already been penalised Rs. 200 crore under the Polluter Pays Principle (PPP), with the case pending before the National Green Tribunal (NGT). He urged the public to take personal responsibility in reversing the decline of the region’s air and water quality.
The drive witnessed active participation from CEO of KMC, Zapuno Sophie, KMC councillors, administrative officers, IPR officials, colony authorities, and residents from Officer Hill Colony, Para Medical/Merhülietsa Colony, Supply Colony, Lower Jail Colony, and Lower PR Hill Colony.
The initiative, officials said, marks a collective step towards improving Kohima’s sanitation and environmental standards, while reinforcing the urgent need for sustainable waste management practices.