B Henok Buchem stresses civic responsibility and announces action against free-roaming dogs from October 20
Speaking at the launch of the Ward-19 app at Central Plaza Multilevel Parking, Kohima, on Thursday, Buchem said that while the Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) must perform its duties efficiently, citizens also have a responsibility to manage the waste they generate.
He emphasised the need for every household to segregate wet and dry waste at source in accordance with municipal guidelines, stating that proper segregation would improve waste collection, transportation, processing and disposal.
He warned that unless citizens practise waste segregation and dispose of waste responsibly, problems such as littered streets, blocked drains and environmental pollution would persist.
“We must stop littering public places, throwing waste into drains, and treating open spaces as dumping grounds. No application, municipal order, or enforcement measure can bring lasting change unless there is a change in our mindset. Let us move away from the attitude that someone else will take care of the problem,” he said.
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KMC, police to act on stray dogs
Buchem also announced that the KMC, in coordination with the police, would begin catching dogs found roaming freely from October 20.
The dogs would be kept in a shelter at the owners’ expense, he said, adding that the KMC had issued an order on the matter after considerable efforts.
“Your dog is your responsibility. You cannot let your dog roam freely and cause problems for others. You must keep it on a leash. If you take your dog out for a walk, please carry poop bags to collect and properly dispose of your dog's waste. Let us all be responsible pet owners and considerate neighbours,” he said.
On solid waste management, the deputy commissioner said the KMC, under the leadership of its chairman, councillors and chief executive officer, was working to streamline and strengthen the city’s waste management system.
He added that new rules were expected to come into force shortly, based on the principle that polluters must pay environmental compensation for causing pollution.
Highlighting the contrast between Kohima’s scenic landscape and the condition of its streets, Buchem said the city appeared beautiful in drone photographs, but the situation on the ground could be disturbing.
“When we look at Kohima through drone photographs, the city looks beautiful. Our hills and natural landscape create a wonderful picture. But when we come down and walk through our streets and neighbourhoods, the ground reality can be very disturbing. A beautiful Kohima should not exist only in drone photographs. It must also be beautiful when we walk through its streets,” he said.
He also urged citizens to ensure that their parking practices did not cause inconvenience to others.
Buchem stressed that good governance required cooperation among the district administration, the KMC, ward councillors and functionaries, community organisations and, most importantly, citizens.
He reminded residents that citizenship was not only about claiming rights but also about fulfilling their duties and taking responsibility for the well-being of the community.