Pollutant load at Gopalpur tourist beach and Kantiagada beach in Ganjam district is high. This was discovered during a beach cleanup program organized by the Department of Marine Sciences, Berhampur University and Tata Steel Foundation’s Gopalpur unit. The cleanup program took place on International Coastal Cleanup Day 2023 at Gopalpur Beach and Bhateswar Sea Beach, Kantiagada.
During the cleanup, the top five items found were polythene covers, plastic caps, plastic water bottles, plastic straws, and food wrappers. Other items like liquor bottles, rubber footwear, and damaged fishing nets were also collected.
Around 500 volunteers, including schoolchildren and representatives from partner organizations, participated in the TSF Gopalpur event. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the critical issue of marine pollution and the urgent need to protect coastal ecosystems. The event was organized under the theme “Sea the Change” and aimed to foster a sense of responsibility within the communities.
TSF partnered with the district administration, Indian Coast Guard Station, Gopalpur, Indian Army, Forest Department, National Cadet Corps, and Notified Area Council, Gopalpur. Local school students were invited to participate in the event.
Lt Gen U V Talur, Commandant of the Army Air Defence College in Gopalpur, highlighted the global issue of beach pollution and praised TSF’s efforts in raising awareness and preserving these beaches. Pratip Modak, Commandant of the Indian Coast Guard, also attended the event. The Department of Marine Sciences from Berhampur University conducted a beach cleaning drive on Gopalpur beach. They emphasized the need for environmental conservation and urged everyone to work towards a cleaner and healthier planet for future generations.
The cleanup program also aimed to create awareness among tourists who are responsible for almost 97% of the debris found on the beach. Fishing activities contribute to 3% of the debris, so fishermen were also part of the campaign.
