Goa to clean its beaches "International Coastal Clean-up Day"

PANAJI: In its quest to ensure a clean environment, the Indian Coast Guard in collaboration with the directorate of tourism will observe International Coastal Clean-up Day from 7.30am to 10.30am on September 25 at all major beaches of Goa. 

The Indian Coast Guard headquarters, Goa, will be the main coordinator for the event in the state. 

Coast Guard, naval and army personnel, including families, school children, NCC cadets, personnel from police, central and state organizations, beachside hotels, non-governmental organizations and voluntary organizations will participate in the event, a press release from the Coast Guard states. 

Stating that it is committed to protecting and preserving the marine and adjoining environment, the Coast Guard appealed to all citizens to join hands with the coordinators at the nearest beaches. 

"The aim of this drive is to generate public awareness for prevention of pollution in marine environment as visitors to the pristine beaches of Goa tend to leave waste and garbage behind. All hotels near the sea have been requested to coordinate and clean the beaches close to them and the hotels have shown willingness to join this noble cause," the press release states. 

The major beaches to be covered in the cleanliness drive are Calangute, Sinquerim, Vainguinim and Miramar in North Goa and Baina, Bogmalo, Arossim, Majorda, Benaulim and Varca in South Goa. 

Cooperation from local village panchayats and municipal councils is being sought to make the event a grand success, the press note states. 

The organizers have also called upon students to join the clean-up drive at beaches near their schools, colleges or residences. 

Volunteer groups desirous of participating have been requested to contact the chief coordinator on telephone 2520968 or fax 2520584.