The village council of Khlieh A Sem in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district has introduced a Sunday ban on tourism to combat plastic pollution and ensure environmental sustainability. Renowned for its scenic waterfalls and lush landscapes, the village is taking proactive measures to maintain its pristine condition.
The decision comes in response to the challenges faced on Sundays when villagers are engaged in church services and unable to manage the waste generated by visitors. The village chief explained, “While we warmly welcome tourists to Mawkynrew, the influx of visitors on Sundays creates waste management difficulties. This ban is necessary to protect our environment.”
In addition to the tourism restriction, the village has set forth new guidelines for tourists to follow, aiming to minimize environmental impact. Khlieh A Sem has also requested support from the Meghalaya government for better infrastructure and tourism management.
This initiative highlights the village’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and promoting sustainable tourism practices for future generations.