With the National Games 2025 drawing closer, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has taken a firm and proactive stance to ensure that the state’s natural beauty matches its rising sports ambitions. In a recent high-level review, the CM emphasized an urgent clean-up and beautification drive along Shillong’s riverfronts, particularly the stretch near Polo Grounds—one of the key venues for the games.
The move is not just a push for environmental restoration, but a broader vision to boost urban aesthetics, tourism, and civic pride ahead of one of India’s biggest sporting events. This initiative is part of a larger urban renewal plan that aligns with the CM’s long-term goals for sustainable development and eco-tourism.
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Riverfront Transformation: A Symbol of Civic Revival
Chief Minister Sangma has directed multiple departments, including the Urban Affairs Department, the Shillong Municipal Board, and the Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA), to coordinate and expedite efforts in clearing garbage, restoring water flow, and landscaping the affected areas. One of the primary focuses is the Umkhrah River, which flows through central Shillong and has long been affected by pollution and encroachment.
During a recent inspection, the CM expressed concern over the condition of the river and nearby neighborhoods, stating, “We want Shillong to shine as the face of Meghalaya during the National Games. That includes clean rivers, green spaces, and a city that we can all take pride in.”
A Multi-Sectoral Cleanup Mission
Operation riverfront cleanup is being treated as a state priority, with multiple stakeholders including local ward committees, student bodies, and NGOs being roped in to raise awareness and ensure public cooperation. The drive includes:
- Waste removal and proper segregation units along the riverbanks
- Installation of eco-friendly dustbins and signage
- Beautification efforts including murals, LED lighting, and green zones
- Building proper drainage to prevent waste overflow into water bodies
- Deploying personnel for regular river monitoring and maintenance
Sangma emphasized that this was not a one-time effort. “We are not just cleaning for the National Games—we are setting a new standard for how we treat our environment.”
Boost to Tourism and Civic Infrastructure
The riverfront cleanup is expected to enhance Meghalaya’s image on a national and international scale. With thousands of athletes, officials, and tourists expected to visit during the National Games 2025, Shillong’s visual and ecological landscape will be under the spotlight.
This move is closely tied with Meghalaya’s broader goal of positioning itself as a clean and green tourist destination. According to officials, funds allocated under the Smart City project and Swachh Bharat Mission are being redirected to fast-track this urban makeover.
Community Participation and Cultural Integration
In an inspiring touch, local artists, school students, and community leaders are being involved in decorating the cleaned-up spaces with traditional Khasi motifs, recycled art, and awareness murals. The campaign slogan, “Let Shillong Flow Clean Again”, has already gained traction on social media and is being promoted as a youth-driven civic movement.
Environmental activists have lauded the government’s approach of integrating culture, cleanliness, and community into one single narrative. “Cleaning rivers is not just about removing waste—it’s about restoring respect for our natural resources,” said a member of the local NGO involved in the project.
Sustainability Beyond the Games
While the cleanup campaign is tied to the Meghalaya National Games 2025, officials assure that mechanisms will be in place to ensure the effort continues beyond the event. Maintenance contracts, monthly clean-up drives, and digital waste monitoring tools are being introduced to make the transformation long-term and sustainable.
Chief Minister Sangma concluded his review by stating, “Let the world see a Shillong that is ready—not just to host the National Games, but to lead the way in clean, community-led urban development.”
As the countdown to the games begins, Meghalaya’s riverfront revival mission is shaping up to be a symbol of progress, unity, and eco-conscious leadership.
