Reported by Bhadra Gogoi
Dimapur: The Nagaland government on Friday called for the effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, in light of Supreme Court directions.
Chairing a meeting on the matter in Kohima, Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen highlighted that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the SWM Rules, 2026, on January 27, 2026, superseding the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, with effect from April 1, 2026.
He underscored the critical importance of sustainable solid waste management and emphasised that adherence to the provisions of the rules is not optional but a statutory mandate.
All departments were directed to ensure strict compliance.
Imchen stressed that a comprehensive roadmap and time-bound action plans must be developed in coordination with district administrations, urban local bodies, rural local bodies, and communities.
Reiterating the seriousness of the matter, he cautioned that failure to comply with the rules and Supreme Court directions will have serious legal repercussions for the state.
He said the court order mandates accountability, holding concerned authorities and officers liable for any lapses.
All departments were directed to act with urgency, diligence, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Principal Secretary Y. Kikheto Sema also called for public awareness, segregation at source, convergence, inter-departmental coordination, timely compliance with the court order, and active collaboration at all levels to ensure effective planning, execution, and monitoring of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026.
The meeting was attended by administrative heads of departments and heads of departments.