On the occasion of International Coastal Cleanup Day, an unprecedented beach clean-up drive was organised across the coastline of Puri, aimed at sensitising people about beach cleanliness. It is being claimed that this was the world’s largest coastal clean-up drive.
The event witnessed the participation of over ten thousand volunteers spread across several places along the district coast. High-profile delegates including Forest and Environment Minister Bikram Keshari Arukh, Bollywood actor Vidyut Jammwal and internationally acclaimed artist and writer Nandita Das graced the occasion and got their hands dirty to lead by example.
“Puri is the pride of our country and I am happy to be a part of world’s mega clean-up drive here at the sea beach,” said Vidyut Jammwal.
Internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, who was chosen as the ambassador for the event, expressed his delight saying “it is a great day for us as thousands came forward to clean up the beach at Puri”.
Students and volunteers from all walks of life joined in large numbers and were seen forming a human chain at the beach. They took an oath to protect the coastline by following the simple mantra of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
The initiative saw participation from hotel owners, lifeguards, self-help groups, tourist guides, fishermen community, beachside vendors, Sebayat community of Jagannath Temple, government officials among others.