Sikkim Observes Seven-Minute Vehicular Halt to Raise Environmental Awareness
GANGTOK: The Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, organised Paryavaran Parva – A Day for Mother Earth under the theme Leave a Green Legacy.
As a part of the observance, the department halted vehicular movement across the state for seven minutes today, from 11:00 AM to 11:07 AM. The department is holding the two-week programme from July 1 to July 14 2025.
The initiative aims to raise awareness of climate change and highlight the need to reduce carbon emissions. It also encourages the public to follow environment-friendly practices.
Secretary-cum-Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Environment Department, Dr Pradeep Kumar, said that Sikkim had taken the lead in environmental governance. He said that the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, has introduced various programmes including Mero Rukh Mero Santati, Mero Bato Mero Bot, Paryavaran Parva, and Ek Ped Maa ke Naam to strengthen environmental action.
Dr Pradeep Kumar also informed that the observance focused on building public awareness on climate change, especially the role of vehicular emissions in global warming. He stated that the programme provided an opportunity for people to show respect for nature and promote sustainable practices. He added that collective responsibility was needed to protect the environment and improve the public well-being.
The Chief Minister launched the initiative Paryavaran Parva in 2019. Since then, Sikkim has observed it annually from July 1 to July 14 with participation from across the state.
The observance features activities such as Greenathon, Green Walk, rallies, Green Reels, quiz competitions, essay writing, painting, workshops, awareness programmes, mass plantation drives, avenue plantations, and cleanup campaigns.
- IPR Report
