Port Blair, 10: Indian Coast Guard organized Special Swachhta Abhiyan on 09 Jan at Corbyn’s Cove Beach to commemorate 44th Coast Guard raising day. The event was organised to spread awareness on cleanliness and creation of a clean and plastic free healthy habitat in our surrounding area under the aegis of Honb’le Prime Minister’s initiative ‘‘Swatchh Bharat Abhiyan’’ and ‘‘Swachhta hi Seva’’.

Inspector General MV Pathak, TM, Commander, Coast Guard Region (A&N) led the campaign at Corbyn’s Cove and stressed upon the importance of clean beaches and preserving the fragile marine ecosystem in these pristine Islands. He emphasized the dedication and commitment of Coast Guard fraternity towards rendering selfless services for the people of the Islands. He further stated that Indian Coast Guard has transformed this beautiful idea of coastal cleanup into a tool which spreads awareness about the necessity of cleaner maritime environment and environmental preservation. Quoting that Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a bio-diverse & eco-sensitive area, he reminded the gathering that we are surrounded from all sides with ocean, therefore, harmony with the ocean is an important part of our living. During the event, he reiterated the importance of organizing the event and significance of having clean and sparkling beaches around the world which is connected by the oceans surrounding us.

The event was a successful endeavor on the part of Coast Guard Region (A&N) for creating awareness and spreading information for a cleaner plastic free environment. A total of 45 Gunny bags of plastic waste was collected whilst cleaning the premises. Also, safety gloves and masks were worn by all participants and utmost care was exercised with respect to hygiene and COVID-19 protocol.

Indian Coast Guard is committed to the protection of marine environment and shall continue to organize such drives to educate and motivate the general public on the issue.