Shillong, December 15 : The Government of Meghalaya has introduced a Green Deposit Scheme to combat rising plastic pollution in some of the State’s most visited eco-tourism destinations. The initiative, launched in Sohra, Dawki and the Living Root Bridge areas, seeks to strengthen sustainable tourism practices and reduce plastic litter impacting fragile landscapes, rivers and forests.
Under the new system, tourists carrying plastic items—such as bottles, packaging or wrappers—into designated zones must pay a refundable deposit of ₹100. The amount is reimbursed when visitors return the plastic waste at identified exit points.
Officials said the measure aims to discourage irresponsible disposal and instill a “leave no trace” ethic among travellers visiting Meghalaya’s natural attractions.
The Green Deposit Scheme forms a key element of Meghalaya’s wider waste management strategy, which includes: Community-led sanitation initiatives, Improved waste segregation and recycling, Stricter enforcement of plastic-use regulations, Compliance with Meghalaya High Court directives on banning single-use plastics below 120 microns.
Authorities emphasised that the scheme blends regulatory enforcement with public awareness, involving local communities, tourism stakeholders and grassroots organisations in implementation.
The initiative also aligns with the Clean Hills City programme under the Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban (SBM-U) 2.0, supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in collaboration with State Governments.
Across India’s hill towns, these efforts focus on: Scientific solid waste management, Plastic waste reduction, Source segregation, Behaviour change campaigns suited to ecologically sensitive regions.
Officials noted that the Green Deposit Scheme reinforces Meghalaya’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage while supporting the growth of responsible and sustainable tourism.
