Navy's Costal Cleanup evokes good response

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 the 'International Coastal Cleanup Day' tomorrow.

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

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

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 annual activity is aimed at bringing about 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.

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