MARGAO: A large group of concerned natives of South Goa, including non-residents staying in the coastal belt, have joined hands to carry out a massive cleaning drive across five beaches namely, Sunset Beach, Lover’s Beach, Betalbatim Beach, Trinity Beach and Benaulim Beach on June 6 to mark World Environment Day.
The clean-up drive is being done in partnership with the Traffic Police Department, Goa Waste Management Corporation, an eco-adventure business known as Aqua Trails Goa, Fishka restaurant amongst others.
“This is our opportunity to unite to honour our planet. The mandate of this globally-observed day is to encourage action for the protection of the environment,” said Jinisha B, one of the organisers, who is from Canada and lives in Betalbatim.
“We have caused damage to many ecosystems and singlehandedly contributed to the degradation of the environment. The good news is there are simple solutions that we can all contribute to as a single species of the planet. All we need are some planet-loving friends, some supplies and a few hours,” she added.
A group of 60-70 volunteers have committed to show up for this, which include a football team that frequently visits Benaulim Beach. The numbers may increase on the day of the drive as the group is still receiving an outpouring of interest from individuals from all walks of life.
“We have learned that we all care and go out of our ways to protect the environment. We just need to be galvanized,” Jinisha added.
The idea behind the drive is to free the beaches from garbage that not only gives an unwelcoming sight but causes harm to the environment and ecology too.
“As a nomad who now calls Goa her home, I am grateful to see how connected and close-knit Goans are,” she added.
