Dong, a small village situated at an altitude of about 1,240 metres, lies at the trijunction of India, China, and Myanmar. It has long been part of the general knowledge compilations of the country due to its unique attraction. As the first place in India to receive the blessings of the sun’s rays, this remote border village has become a place of interest for many nature lovers.
Though already on the tourism map of the country, the government now aims to further promote and boost its profile by hosting a five-day ‘Sunrise Festival’. The festivities, to be held from 29 December to 2 January, will give travellers a chance to witness the first dawn of the new year.
The initiative will surely attract more tourists and make the village accessible to many more. However, the organisers must ensure that they do not leave behind a trail of garbage in this fragile environment, as seen in other tourist destinations across the state. For five days of celebrations – which can make a real difference to the local economy if the community is actively involved – the organisers must take responsibility for every piece of waste generated.
They should also ensure that a proper waste disposal system is in place. Simply collecting garbage and leaving it in one spot does not qualify as waste management.
Let the festivities be inclusive, sustainable, and organic for all.