NERLDC observes Swachhata Pakhwada with community participation and green initiatives

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 2, 2025

The North Eastern Regional Load Despatch Centre (NERLDC), a unit of GRID-INDIA, observed Swachhata Pakhwada from May 16 to May 31, 2025, in line with guidelines issued by the Ministry of Power. Employees from both the Shillong and Guwahati centres actively participated in a series of cleanliness and awareness activities, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

The observance began with the Swachhata Pledge, administered by the Head of Region on May 16. A Health Talk focusing on ergonomics and lower back pain followed, addressing employee wellness. A key highlight was a Shramdaan activity in Guwahati, where employees cleaned the weekly market area near the Kahilipara powerhouse main road.

As part of the green initiatives, plantation drives were conducted at both centres. In Shillong, employees collaborated with Nongrah Presbyterian School to carry out plantation activities on the school premises. In Guwahati, NERLDC visited BDS School for the Hearing Impaired in Kahilipara, gifting 10 lemon saplings which were joyfully planted by the students with support from their teachers.

To promote environmentally conscious practices, NERLDC also distributed cloth bags to the public in Shillong and Guwahati, encouraging a shift away from single-use plastic. The initiative was well received by shopkeepers and buyers alike.

The observance also included creative engagements: a slogan writing competition for employees and a painting/craft competition for their children. A special awareness session on “Waste to Wealth” was conducted by Dr. Jayaditya Purkayastha from Help Earth Foundation. The session highlighted practical waste management solutions and showcased conservation efforts by youth in Assam.

In his opening remarks, Amaresh Mallick, Executive Director of NERLDC, urged all employees to adopt Swacchata as a way of life, beyond the formal observance.

NERLDC reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to cleanliness, environmental awareness, and meaningful community engagement through the two-week-long initiative.