In an effort to curb environmental degradation, public nuisance, and traffic obstruction, the Sohra Civil Sub-Division in Meghalaya has imposed a prohibitory order banning roadside cooking, open fires, and littering across its jurisdiction with immediate effect.
The order, issued by Sohra Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mark A. Challam under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, comes after reports of tourists and visitors preparing food along roadsides, lay-bys, viewpoints, and other undesignated public spaces, particularly along the Shillong-Sohra-Shella Road.
Authorities stated that the practice has resulted in indiscriminate littering, environmental degradation, public nuisance, and traffic obstruction, while also posing serious fire hazards. The restrictions apply to the Shillong-Sohra-Shella Road as well as all other public roads and public spaces within the subdivision.
The administration has exempted designated picnic sites or locations specifically approved by the competent authority or the concerned Dorbar Shnong, where cooking is permitted and proper waste disposal and fire safety arrangements are in place. However, littering is strictly prohibited, and visitors are directed to dispose of all food waste, plastic, bottles, disposable utensils, packaging materials, and other refuse only at authorised waste collection points.
Police, Executive Magistrates, officials from the Forest, Tourism, and Public Works Departments, local authorities, and Dorbar Shnongs have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the order. Violators will face prosecution under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and other applicable environmental laws. The order came into force on August 3, 2026, and will remain in operation until further orders.
