YMCR Organizes Successful Yamaso River Clean-Up, Removing 3,000 kg of Waste

Itanagar, India Jul 29, 2026 ALN: ITANAGAR, 28 Jul: The Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR) and the Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society, with support from the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation Ltd, organized a river clean-up drive at the Yamaso river in C-II Colony, Ward 10, on the occasion of World Nature Conservation Day on Tuesday.

Yamaso is one of the sister rivers of the Yagamso river, with the two converging near the end of IG Park. This geographical connection emphasizes the ecological significance of the area, as both rivers serve not only as vital water sources but also as essential habitats for various species of flora and fauna. The health of these waterways is crucial, not just for the local ecosystem but also for the communities that rely on them for their livelihoods and recreational activities.

Volunteers taking part in the drive removed approximately 3,000 kilograms of waste from the river over the course of the day. This substantial amount of waste highlights a growing concern regarding pollution in natural water bodies, particularly in urban areas where rapid development often outpaces environmental management efforts. The clean-up efforts are part of a broader initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of maintaining clean waterways and the role that community engagement plays in environmental stewardship.

Speaking on the occasion, YMCR vice chairman Keyom Doni underlined the need for cleanliness and civic responsibility among citizens, and urged residents to take greater ownership of rivers and public spaces. His remarks reflect a growing recognition of the role that individual and collective actions play in environmental conservation. The call for civic responsibility is particularly pertinent in regions where urbanization and population growth have led to increased waste generation and environmental degradation.

Doni also spoke about the YMCR’s ongoing work in organizing clean-up drives and awareness campaigns for river conservation in Itanagar, emphasizing the organization's commitment to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among the youth and the community at large. Continuous public cooperation is essential to the success of these initiatives, as community involvement not only enhances the effectiveness of clean-up efforts but also helps to instill a sense of pride and ownership in local natural resources.

During the drive, volunteers observed a large heap of garbage accumulated between two multistorey residential buildings along the riverbank. This finding underscores a significant challenge in urban waste management: the improper disposal of waste by individuals and businesses. According to the organizers, waste appears to be dumped at the spot regularly, with much of it eventually entering the river. This not only detracts from the visual appeal of the area but also poses serious environmental and health risks.

Local residents, particularly those living near the two buildings, told volunteers that the occupants of the buildings have repeatedly disposed of waste in and around the river. Residents expressed frustration over the situation, stating that they had complained about the matter on several occasions, but the dumping has continued unabated. This highlights a common issue in many communities where residents feel powerless to address environmental violations in their neighborhoods.

A ward member present at the site said notices had earlier been issued to the buildings concerned, but no change in behavior followed. The ineffectiveness of prior warnings raises questions about the enforcement of local regulations regarding waste disposal and the responsibilities of property owners in maintaining clean and safe environments. It also points to a potential gap in communication and action between residents, local authorities, and property owners.

The organizers said such dumping poses risks to public health, biodiversity, and the environment, and appealed to the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) mayor and the Ward 10 corporator to take action against those responsible and to prevent further illegal dumping in the area. The call for action reflects a broader need for effective policies and regulations that not only penalize illegal dumping but also promote sustainable waste management practices. This could involve increased public education on proper waste disposal, the implementation of more accessible waste collection services, and community engagement initiatives that encourage responsible behavior.

The implications of these clean-up efforts extend beyond the immediate removal of waste. They serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about environmental conservation, urban planning, and community responsibility. The involvement of local organizations like YMCR and the Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society illustrates the importance of grassroots movements in addressing environmental issues. These organizations play a crucial role in mobilizing community members, raising awareness, and advocating for policy changes that prioritize environmental sustainability.

Moreover, the clean-up drive aligns with global efforts to promote environmental awareness and conservation, particularly on days like World Nature Conservation Day. Such observances serve not only as reminders of the importance of protecting natural resources but also as opportunities to engage the public in meaningful actions that contribute to the health of the planet.

In conclusion, the successful clean-up of the Yamaso river by YMCR and its partners is a significant step towards improving the health of local waterways and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. However, it also highlights the ongoing challenges of waste management and the need for collaborative efforts between residents, local authorities, and community organizations to ensure the long-term sustainability of natural resources. As urban areas continue to grow, the importance of clean rivers and the role of community engagement in preserving them will only become more critical.