Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 20: Swaraj Dweep Forest Division conducted a beach cleaning campaign at the designated Blue Flag Beach, Radhanagar in which more than 300 volunteers participated in the beach cleaning drive, comprising representatives from various departments and stakeholders, including Pradhan and PRI members of Shyam nagar and Govindnagar Panchayat, Hoteliers of Taj Resort, Barefoot and other Hotels, Lifeguards, Trek guides, Tour operators, Photographers, Association of restaurants, vendors, School children, Teachers, women, local villagers, NGOs and other members of the local community.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation and invaluable contribution despite intermittent heavy rain. The gathering was appealed for making the beaches free from garbage, raised awareness about preserving and protecting the World’s Ocean and beaches, and to solve the problem of trash in the ocean.
As part of the programme, a pledge was administered to all participants to reaffirm their commitment towards keeping the coastal environment clean and safe for a sustainable tourism industry. Around 20 forestry saplings were planted along the coast as a part of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” plantation initiative.
The coastal clean-up drive named “Plogging” where all participants walked along the beach and collected all trash as to mark the drive. The programme also included a Signature campaign and Selfie corner to encourage greater public participation and raise awareness about coastal conservation. Prize distribution was also conducted for the first, second and third prize winners of the poster and sand art competition among the children.
To felicitate certification of participation, QR codes were placed at accessible locations within beach premises, enabling participants to obtain their individual certificates for their participation in their beach cleaning activity.