Massive Coastal Clean-Up Drive Engages 4,000 Volunteers in Ganjam District
A significant environmental initiative unfolded across the coastal stretches of Ganjam district in Odisha on Saturday, as a massive beach clean-up drive mobilized approximately 4,000 participants. This concerted effort aimed to rejuvenate 14 key locations ahead of the much-anticipated Gopalpur Beach Festival.
Wide Participation from Diverse Groups
The clean-up campaign saw enthusiastic involvement from a broad spectrum of the community. Local residents, government officials, dedicated social activists, and spirited students all joined hands to contribute to this noble cause. The drive was meticulously organized by the Ganjam district administration as a preparatory activity for the four-day Gopalpur Beach Festival, which is scheduled to commence on January 27.
Key Locations and Official Involvement
Among the numerous coastal areas targeted were prominent sites such as Gopalpur-on-Sea, Sonepur, and Nolia Nuagaon. Notably, the clean-up also extended to the mass nesting site of Olive Ridley turtles near the mouth of the Rushikulya river, along with Aryapalli and other vital zones. Collector of Ganjam, Keerthi Vassan V, actively participated in the drive at Nolia Nuagaon, a traditional fishermen village, underscoring the administration's commitment to the initiative.
Substantial Waste Collection and Disposal
During an intensive three-hour operation from 7 am to 10 am, the dedicated volunteers successfully gathered around 13 tonnes of waste materials from the beaches. Collector Keerthi Vassan V confirmed that all collected waste was promptly handed over to the nearest urban local bodies for appropriate treatment and disposal, ensuring an environmentally responsible conclusion to the clean-up efforts.
Festival Highlights and Dignitary Participation
The Gopalpur Beach Festival is set to be a grand event, with Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati scheduled to inaugurate the festivities. The closing ceremony on January 30 will be graced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi as the chief guest, adding significant prestige to the occasion. This clean-up drive not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the beaches but also aligns with broader environmental conservation goals, making the festival a celebration of both culture and ecological responsibility.
