SHILLONG, NOV 30: Concerned over the rapid climate change, Shillong citizens, including students, on Monday took out a ‘global march for climate change’, signaling to centre and state governments to come up with strong mechanism to protect environment.
The march organised by the Civil Society Women Organization (CSWO) in collaboration with Avaaz and other civil societies kicked started from Iewrynghep Ground (Firebrigade) and culminated near the additional secretariat.
Members of the Central Puja Committee (CPC), Shillong, Garo Students Union (GSU), students and concerned individuals took part in the global march, aiming to create awareness on the importance of environment.
According to the organizers, Shillong is amongst the thousands from over 140 countries joining hands in taking climate action and to urge the leaders to take ambitious action on climate at the UN Climate Summit (COP21) held in Paris for future of livelihoods and the planet.
Besides, Indian Youth for Climate Network (IYCN) representative, who will also be attending the conference at Paris, took part in the march in Shillong.
Speaking to reporters, IYCN member A Dey said, “The objective of the global march is to create local consciousness that environment and climate change are closely linked and to send a message to the leaders who are part of the Paris conference that they need to act now.”
Emphasizing that there is a need to strike a balance between economic development and environment, Dey said, “We really need to have a strong document on the importance of protecting the environment as well as bringing development which is sustainable.”
On the other hand, CSWO president Agnes Kharshiing said, “We want to force our leaders in Paris to make an agreement that will not affect the environment and the planet.” According to her, scientist have said there is global warming and if the world will not act today this planet will not be there.
Turning towards Meghalaya, Kharshiing said that the state government should act against the cement factories operating in the state especially in Jaintia hills region. “I feel that these cement factories should be closed down as eight of them are within a radius of 10 kilometers and this will only affect the people and but environment too,” she stated.
Those who joined in march were also seen carrying heart-shaped placards with messages that read – “Leaders Awake”, “Love your creator love mother nature”, “We want action in Paris”, “Save the Planet” and others.- By Our Reporter
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