ZIRO : Ahead of the 80th Independence Day celebrations, the Ziro Valley witnessed a massive community cleanliness and social service drive on Thursday, with citizens and officials joining hands to spruce up public spaces and key areas of Hapoli and Old Ziro.

The drive was organised by the district administration in collaboration with the Urban Development Department, with participation from various government departments, educational institutions, youth organisations and local residents.

The volunteers cleared drains, removed roadside debris and cleaned markets, public spaces and important transit routes as part of the preparatory activities for the national celebration.

Field operations were coordinated by a dedicated team led by Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Tilling Takar, along with personnel of the Urban Development Department. Executive Engineer Taru Majhi, Assistant Commissioner Radhe Tatung, Assistant Director of Economics and Statistics Chiging Tamu, District Labour and Employment Officer N Pugang, District Art and Culture Officer Tapi Rimu and Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies Dani Yamang, among other officers, actively participated in the drive with their respective teams.

Ziro Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme said the collective effort was not merely about cleaning public spaces but also about fostering a sense of ownership, shared responsibility and community pride as the district prepares to host its Independence Day celebrations.

The district administration appreciated the volunteers, students and departmental teams for their enthusiastic participation, saying the drive had set a vibrant and patriotic tone ahead of the celebrations. (DIPR)