Karwar Observes International Coastal Cleanup Day with Beach Cleaning Drive
Karwar, Sept. 21, 2025: The sea is an integral part of human life, and life itself cannot exist without it, said District Police Superintendent Deepan MN. on Saturday. Speaking at the inauguration of the beach cleanup programme at Timmakka Tree Park near Rabindranath Tagore Beach, he emphasized that the oceans play a crucial role in global climate changes and that preserving and protecting them is everyone’s responsibility.
The event was organized as part of Seva Parva 2025 by the Forest and Environment Department, Karwar Division, with participation from regional environmental directors and wildlife officials. Deepan highlighted the importance of maintaining clean coastlines, stating that a healthy ocean ensures a healthy environment. “If the coastlines are well-maintained, we all benefit; hence, everyone should join hands to protect them,” he added.
Additional remarks were made by Deputy Commissioner Sajid Mulla, who noted that coastal cleanup efforts should not be limited to a single day but should continue throughout the year.
Speaking at the programme, Deputy Conservator of Forests Ravishankar highlighted the ocean’s role in providing oxygen to all living beings, while stressing the threat posed by plastic pollution. “Every minute, a ton of plastic enters the ocean, causing the death of over 10 lakh birds and 1 lakh marine animals annually. Plastic is found in their post-mortem examinations. To combat this, single-use plastics must be banned, and overall plastic usage reduced. The youth have a vital role in protecting oceans and coastlines,” he said.
Other dignitaries present included Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dr. Dileesh Shashi, Seva Parva 2025 Nodal Officer Rajesh Kumar, DFO Manjunath Navi, and senior geologist Asha from the Department of Mines and Geology. The programme was presided over by Deputy Conservator of Forests, Karwar Division, with speeches by Praveen Kumar Basrur and participation from various officials including Kiran Manavchari and Gajanan Naik.
Over 1,500 kg of waste was collected during the coastal cleanup, involving college students, forest department staff, and local citizens. Prizes were distributed to winners of various competitions organized as part of International Beach Cleanup Day, along with an oath ceremony to pledge commitment to protecting the coastlines.
