The International Coastal Clean-up day was conducted by Indian Coast Guard in coordination with Government of Goa on September 21. The theme of this year is “Protecting our oceans, Uniting for cleaner shores”. This event is held in the month of September every year and is the world’s largest one day voluntary effort to clean the sea beaches. The event was conducted concurrently in the various North and South beaches of Goa from 0630 hrs onwards wherein Coast Guard Personnel, Coastal Security Police, CISF, NGOs, Customs, NCC cadets, Gram Panchayats, local population, Fishermen, IOCL staff, nearby hotel staff and also by the enthusiastic young volunteers from various schools/ Colleges joined hands for the noble cause and cleaned the beaches. The aim of the event being “Clean Coast, Safe Sea“, the objective of the programme was to spread awareness on prevention of usage of plastics and pollution in our marine environment. During the coastal clean up event, removal of plastics, non-biodegradabledebris and litter from shore/beaches was undertaken. The overwhelming response from all participants helped in collection of litter, mainly plastic straws, plastic bottle, food wrappers and cigarette buds etc from the beach areas.
This event was conducted by Indian Coast Guard in close coordination with Government of Goa, Vibrant Goa Foundation, Sustainable Oil Recovery and Remediation India (SORR), Travel & Tourism Association of Goa, Goa Shipyard Ltd, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, Rotary International, supported by Casino Pride/Deltin Royale/ Big Daddy Casino, Royal Enfield, Tree Foundation, Schiff and Mare Services, TRH Productions, M/s Shaurya Tech, Nanu Beach Resort & Spa,Hotel Planet Hollywood,ICICI bank, Central Bank of India, Bhavani Enterprises, Pragati Stationary & Xerox at various beaches. The major beaches covered in this event were Miramar, Bogmalo, Colva, Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Bambolim, Betalbatim and Uttorda. Over 6000 approx volunteers participated and resulted in collection of about tons of Marine litters.
Indian Coast Guard covered Nine beaches all across of Goa with various agencies who had volunteered for this noble cause.The aim of this eventwas to inspire and motivate our people to keep our beaches clean by bringing awareness amongst the general populace, more so as Goa is one of the most coveted tourist destinations on the map of India. Apart from beach cleanship, stress was also given on reduced usage of plastics in day to day life which will ultimately result in lesser pollution of beach and seas.
The ICG is committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. The ICC-2024 event is an important step in this effort. The ICG will continue to work with stakeholders to keep the beaches of Goa clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.