Saligao MLA Kedar Naik on Saturday said beach cleanliness drives are vital to mitigate the problem caused by ocean debris and the danger that plastic pollution poses to marine life.
He was speaking at Kegdole beach in Reis Magos during a beach cleanliness drive, which had the participation of Reis Magos Sarpanch Sushmita Pednekar, Nerul Sarpanch Sudesh Govekar, former Pilerne sarpanchas Amarnath Govekar and Sandeep Bandodkar, panch members from Reis Magos, Nerul and Pilerne, and staff of forest department.
“Beaches are beautiful, natural treasures which are here for all of us to explore and enjoy together. Unfortunately, trash on our beaches jeopardises these shared natural treasures. Cleaning up beaches means creating a healthier environment for marine life.”
“Panch members and volunteers gathered should create awareness of plastic pollution by discussing the issue among friends, family, schoolmates and colleagues,” said Naik.
Former Pilerne sarpanch and sitting panch Amarnath Govekar said when such beach cleanliness drives are organised, panch members and volunteers get first-hand knowledge of plastic littered on the beach.
“Seeing this problem first-hand is likely to encourage volunteers to assess plastic usage in their own community, and therefore, consider modifying their own behaviour,” said Govekar.
Reis Magos Sarpanch Sushmita Pednekar welcomed all participants at the beach cleanliness drive.
