KATHMANDU: At first glance, the sight of individuals dressed in suits and Dhaka hats collecting garbage on the streets may seem unusual. Typically, people who gather waste are perceived as doing so out of necessity.
However, in Kathmandu, since the start of their protests four days ago, teachers have been not only applying pressure on the government but also actively participating in street cleaning efforts to spread awareness.
On Sunday, teachers dressed in coats and pants, alongside female teachers in kurtas and suruwals, were seen enthusiastically collecting garbage from the streets of Babarmahal.
The teachers are not just protesting; they are using the opportunity to promote cleanliness and environmental responsibility by personally collecting the waste that has been discarded on the roads.
The teachers’ protest, which began on Chaitra 20, continued on Sunday, with a simultaneous clean-up campaign being carried out. Every day, more than 5,000 teachers gather at Maitighar Mandala and head to Baneshwor as part of their demonstration.
As they sit in the scorching heat during their protests, teachers have also made efforts to avoid littering.
They carry water bottles, making sure not to throw them away carelessly when thirsty. They also place plastic waste from snacks into bags instead of discarding it on the ground.
Teachers are also seen reminding those around them not to litter, even calling out to journalists, police officers, and the general public when they spot discarded trash.
The teachers’ discipline in both the protest and environmental concerns has not gone unnoticed.
Despite thousands attending, they have ensured that no trees or plants are harmed and that no litter is left behind.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor, Balen Shah, praised the teachers for their efforts on social media, commending them for maintaining cleanliness during their protest.
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