Shillong, Oct 9: With Byrnihat continuing to feature among the country’s most polluted towns, the Meghalaya State Judicial Academy (MSJA) took the fight against air pollution beyond courtrooms.
Under the aegis of the Meghalaya High Court and in collaboration with the Office of BDO, Umling C&RD Block, Ri-Bhoi District, the MSJA conducted a one-day outreach programme on “Right to Clean Air: From Statistics to Action” on Friday at the Multipurpose Hall, Byrnihat.
The programme was held in view of rising concerns over air pollution in Byrnihat circle, reinforcing the role of courts in promoting environmental responsibility and community welfare.
MSJA Director KM Lyngdoh Nongbri highlighted the significance of the initiative, stressing that clean air is a fundamental right.
The programme began with a welcome address by Shri Eric Kevin Dkhar, BDO, Umling C&RD Block, followed by an introductory speech by NI Dkhar, Deputy Director, MSJA.
Technical sessions were led by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board. Chief Environmental Engineer Wanshanbor R Kharkrang spoke on “Statistical Report on Air Pollution in Byrnihat” while Chief Scientist S Swer dwelt on “Waste Management Rules, 2026”.
The role of grassroots action was flagged by members of “YoMariang” – the Environmental & Circular Systems Division of ISMG – who conducted a session on “Role of Communities in Controlling Air Pollution and Innovative Approaches to Waste Management”.
Moving beyond lectures, the outreach included interactive activities – Students’ Hotspot Mapping, Waste Segregation Challenge, Waste & Pollution Detective Puzzle, demonstrative videos on waste and air pollution, and distribution of Vehicle Waste Pouches.
