Caranzalem, September 19, 2026: A street play highlighting the importance of protecting Goa’s environment, marine ecosystems and heritage was staged at Caranzalem Beach on Saturday as part of International Coastal Cleanup Day.
Uzwaad – The Rays of Hope, in association with Ayya Waste Management and One Earth Foundation, organised the environmental awareness programme, which combined street theatre with a beach cleanup drive.
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Around 100 people witnessed the street play, which focused on the impact of irresponsible waste disposal on Goa’s beaches, rivers, marine life, fishing communities and historical heritage.
The performance was presented in four scenes. The first highlighted the need to keep heritage sites, forts and tourist destinations clean, while drawing attention to how littering can affect both the appearance and preservation of Goa’s cultural heritage.
The second scene focused on marine pollution and its consequences for aquatic ecosystems and marine life. It also highlighted the impact of pollution on the livelihoods of local fishing communities that depend on healthy marine resources.
Waste segregation and responsible waste management formed the focus of the third scene. The performers urged citizens to segregate waste at source and maintain cleanliness in their surroundings. The performance also acknowledged the contribution of sanitation and waste-management workers, describing them as the “soldiers of cleanliness”.
The final scene addressed the dumping of garbage in rivers, picnic spots and other natural areas. Citizens and tourists were urged to take responsibility for their waste and help preserve Goa’s natural spaces for future generations.
The street play featured Uzwaad President and Founder Sendra Pereira, Joint Treasurer Diksha Fatarpekar, member Sahil Naik, along with Kajal Gupta, Mamta Gupta, Atharva, Samarth, Akshat, Sairaj Fatarpekar, Aarushi Doshi and Sohil. Photographs of the programme were captured by Astrid Pereira.
From Awareness to Action
Following the performance, members and volunteers participated in a cleanup drive at Caranzalem Beach, collecting waste from the shoreline.
The organisers said the activity was intended to demonstrate that environmental awareness must be followed by concrete action. The initiative highlighted the connection between responsible waste management on land and the health of Goa’s rivers, beaches and marine ecosystems.
The programme also stressed that preventing waste from entering drains, rivers and coastal areas can help protect marine life, support fishing communities and preserve Goa’s natural and cultural heritage.
Through street theatre and community participation, the organisers delivered a message on International Coastal Cleanup Day: “Do not leave your waste behind. Leave behind a legacy of care.”
