15 truckloads of garbage cleared from Kochi coast

Kochi, Sep 16 (UNI) More than 3,500 volunteers from various walks of life today joined hands with the Navy in its clean up drive in the coastal areas of the city on the eve of 'International Coastal Cleanup Day'.

A spokesman of the Southern Naval Command said more than 15 truckloads of garbage were cleared in the operation which commenced at 0800 hrs and concluded at noon.

Fort Kochi beach, Marine Drive, Thevara Waterfront and the Willingdon Island were the main areas, which were cleaned.

Personnel of the Coast Guard, students from various city schools, senior citizens, NCC cadets, NSS volunteers and even some foreigners joined in the efforts.

The 'International Coastal Cleanup Day' is a global event observed in more than 123 countries on September 17. The activity is organised to create awareness among the people on the degrading marine environment and encourage them to take conscious steps to prevent environmental pollution and save marine life.

As part of the cleanup drive here, the participants filled up 'data cards', indicating the type and amount of debris collected for analysis by the Ocean Conservancy Forum, the spokesman added.

UNI ARC SP KP1553