Sikkim brought vehicular movement to a standstill for seven minutes on Monday, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:07 a.m., as part of the Paryavaran Parva initiative to raise awareness about climate change and promote sustainable practices, a state official announced. Organized by the Forest and Environment Department under the theme “Leave a Green Legacy,” the event marked a symbolic gesture to highlight the impact of vehicular emissions on global warming.

The two-week Paryavaran Parva programme, running from July 1 to July 14, aims to educate the public on reducing carbon footprints and adopting eco-friendly habits. Pradeep Kumar, Secretary-cum-Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Environment, emphasized Sikkim’s leadership in environmental governance, stating, “This seven-minute halt underscores our collective responsibility to combat climate change and protect nature for future generations.” He urged citizens to embrace sustainable practices to enhance public well-being.

The initiative aligns with Sikkim’s pioneering environmental efforts, including its status as India’s first organic state and its ban on single-use plastics. Social media posts on X praised the move, with users like @sikkim_greens calling it a “bold step toward sustainability.” The state government plans to continue such campaigns to foster greater public participation in environmental conservation, reinforcing Sikkim’s commitment to a greener future.

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