Garbage adorn Imphal left, right, centre
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 06 2025: Even as maintaining a clean city demands a collective effort, Imphal still struggles with waste management as people habitually litter and discard garbage indiscriminately.

Some people still dump garbage on roadsides and open spaces discreetly instead of using the designated garbage trucks of IMC, including along the road stretch near the Imphal River between Sanjenthong and Mongba Hanba (Mahabali) .

The scenic road with trees and fast food stores and a popular spot for people to rest and socialize is now littered with garbage, including feathers and other wastes, lining both sides and emitting a foul odor, causing significant inconvenience to passers-by.

Garbage adorn Imphal left, right, centre

A passer-by told The Sangai Express that the garbage problem will persist as long as people continue to litter and discard waste on roads and in public spaces.

He also said that some individuals tend to turn isolated areas into dumping grounds, highlighting a lack of civic sense and responsibility.

Saying that that many people visit the Sanjenthong to Mongba Hanba road to rest or socialize due to its peaceful atmosphere and sheds, away from city noise, he said that the dumping of plucked chicken feathers from meat shops and other waste along the road has become a serious nuisance, forcing passers-by to cover their noses due to the foul smell.

As multiple fast food joints are also opened along the route, concerns about the hygiene of the food being sold have become increasingly pertinent, the passer-by said.

Pointing out that dozens of garbage bags are also being dumped on the road leading to the Imphal East DC office, he suggested that the authorities should impose penalties on those responsible.

Meanwhile, an NGO operating a garbage truck noted that some families are unwilling to spend even a small amount on proper garbage disposal, contributing to the problem.

He also said that every household generates waste, and those who don't subscribe to the garbage collection service often resort to discreetly disposing of their trash in the early morning or late at night.

Emphasising that local clubs and women's groups (meira paibis) have a significant role in preventing improper waste disposal, he appealed to the public to contribute in keeping the city clean.