Successful Observance of International Day of Action for Rivers 2019

RWUS Training Hall, 14th March 2019 – The International Day of Action for Rivers was celebrated with great enthusiasm and participation by RWUS in collaboration with ADC, Churachandpur. The event, held at the RWUS Training Hall, witnessed the active engagement of various CSOs/CBOs, WinG promoters, Women Environment Promoters, and NGO partners. The program aimed to raise awareness about the importance of rivers and streams while advocating for their protection.

The day began with a short program at the training hall, where a total of 81 participants gathered. Mr. Samuel L. Shakum, the Program Manager of RWUS, hosted the event and introduced the special invitees, resource persons, and topics of discussion. Mrs. Mary Beth Sanate, Chief Functionary of RWUS, delivered a welcome speech and presented a keynote address centered around the theme of “The role of women in protecting and managing waters,” as set by the United Nations for the International Day of Action for Rivers.

Honorable ADC Chairman, Pu T. Paukhanlian, expressed his concerns regarding environmental degradation and the reckless disposal of waste, rendering water resources unusable. He commended RWUS for taking the initiative to observe this international day and appreciated the participants and their commitment to the subsequent action campaign. The ADC Chairman suggested conducting a comprehensive study on the condition of rivers and their impact on health.

As a token of appreciation, 10 special invitees were presented with small gifts for their support and participation. Resource person Mrs. Joseph R. Hmar, President of Hmar Inpui (Hmar Supreme House), provided insights into the historical background of the International Day of Action for Rivers and highlighted gender-related issues in water management. She emphasized the need to utilize rivers and water resources sustainably and engaged the participants in a discussion on their responsibility in protecting these vital natural assets.

Dr. Immanuel Zarzosang Varte, Assistant Professor, delivered a speech on “The role of civil societies in protecting natural resources, with special reference to rivers, for development and peace.” He emphasized the interconnectedness of water resources and the need for responsible resource management. Dr. Varte shared personal experiences regarding garbage disposal and stressed the importance of maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of rivers and streams.

During the discussion session, a Village Authority member from Sielmat Village proposed implementing solid waste management initiatives as a priority. The program concluded with a vote of thanks and a closing prayer, followed by light refreshments.

In the second session of the day, a campaign was launched involving the pasting of posters related to river protection at six different river/stream sites, commonly used as dumping grounds for garbage. A cleaning drive was also organized at Chiengkawn stream, with the assistance of a JCB excavator and a Tipper truck. The collected waste was transported to a designated dumping site located 25 km away from the main town, Lamka. The cleaning drive was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication and efforts of the participants.

RWUS expressed gratitude to all the partners and sponsors for their support in making the event a meaningful intervention. The observance of the International Day of Action for Rivers in 2019 served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect and preserve our water resources for the well-being of present and future generations.