The Growing Concern of Lack of Civic Sense
Every New Year, we step out with joy and anticipation, seeking peaceful and clean riversides or open spaces to celebrate. However, the joy often fades as we witness the aftermath: waste, plastic, food debris, and litter scattered everywhere. This disturbing sight is becoming increasingly common, raising concerns about our civic responsibility towards the environment.
The Impact on Our Ecosystems and Communities
The careless disposal of waste affects not only the aesthetics of our natural spaces but also the health of the ecosystems and the livelihoods of local communities. Rivers, wetlands, forests, and other fragile natural areas are being transformed into dumping sites, causing pollution and harming fish, animals, and the land itself. These communities, who rely on the services provided by these natural landscapes, such as agriculture, clean water, irrigation, fishing, and livestock rearing, are adversely affected by the environmental damage caused by irresponsible picnickers.
The Role of Everyday Behavior in Building Civic Sense
Civic sense is not merely enforced through laws; it is reflected in our everyday behavior. While some individuals do take responsibility and clean up after themselves, the growing habit of leaving waste behind indicates a lack of civic sense among us. True civic sense involves respect for nature, for others, and for future generations.
Taking Small Steps Towards Change
Change does not always require grand gestures. It starts with small steps: carrying a bag for waste, taking everything back, doing a final check of the area before leaving, and reminding friends and family to do the same. When we practice small acts of care, the impact can be profound.
A Call to Action: Celebrate, Enjoy, and Leave a Liveable Place for All
As we celebrate and enjoy our natural spaces, let us remember our responsibility to protect them. Let us strive to leave behind a liveable place for all, not just for our enjoyment today, but for the enjoyment of future generations.
In the context of North East India, this issue of lack of civic sense and environmental degradation is particularly relevant. The region is blessed with diverse and rich ecosystems, from the Brahmaputra and Barak river systems to the dense forests and wetlands. The health and preservation of these natural resources are crucial for the region's ecological balance, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of its people. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to ensure that we treat these resources with respect and care. This issue also resonates with the broader Indian context, as the country grapples with the challenges of urbanization, population growth, and environmental degradation. It is a call for each one of us to take responsibility for our actions and contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable India.