TEZU : In a significant step towards strengthening sustainable waste management practices and nurturing future environmental leaders, the Urban Development Department (UDD), Tezu, launched a Solid Waste Management Internship Programme on June 7.

A total of 12 interns have been selected for the programme, which aims to provide practical exposure to scientific solid waste management, waste segregation, recycling processes, community awareness initiatives and sustainable urban sanitation practices.

The internship is designed to build local capacity while encouraging youth participation in environmental stewardship and civic responsibility.

Speaking at the launch programme, Lohit Superintendent of Police Thupten Jampa underscored the importance of engaging young people in addressing the growing challenges of waste management and environmental conservation. He said the initiative would equip participants with hands-on experience in waste collection systems, material recovery operations, public outreach, data collection and innovative waste-reduction strategies.

The programme forms part of ongoing efforts to transform Tezu into a model town for effective solid waste management. Officials informed that the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Tezu has been entrusted to Feedback Foundation Charitable Trust under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode for a period of three years.

Interns will work closely with officials of the Urban Development Department, technical experts from Feedback Foundation Charitable Trust, sanitation workers and community stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the waste management ecosystem. The programme will include field visits, training sessions, awareness campaigns and project-based learning activities.

Addressing the gathering, Urban Development Department Executive Engineer highlighted the provisions of the Solid Waste Management Rules, user fees and the importance of public participation in maintaining cleanliness. He expressed hope that the interns would emerge as ambassadors of environmental sustainability and contribute towards building a cleaner and greener Tezu.

Among those present were social worker and senior public leader Ojimso Tayang, Tamlanagar Gaon Burah Soloi Ngadong, representatives of Feedback Foundation Charitable Trust, faculty members from Indira Gandhi Government College and the selected interns, besides officials and staff of the Urban Development Department.

The internship programme is expected to serve as a platform for skill development, innovation and community engagement while supporting the broader vision of sustainable urban development and environmental responsibility in Lohit district. (DIPR)