Indian Coast Guard conducts International Coastal Day

This year, Maharashtra witnessed the highest participation of 11,425 volunteers followed by Tamil Nadu which had 5,166 volunteers.

The Indian Coast Guard conducted International Coastal Clean-up Day – 2023 (ICC-2023) across all coastal states and union territories. The International Coastal Clean-up Day is held worldwide on the third Saturday of September every year under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) in the South Asian Region. The Indian Coast Guard has been coordinating this activity in India since 2006.

This year, Maharashtra witnessed the highest participation of 11,425 volunteers followed by Tamil Nadu which had 5,166 volunteers. Nationwide, a total of 25,245 volunteers participated in the ICC-2023 campaign.

The campaign was also dedicated to the ongoing efforts of the Government for the ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clarion call for mass cleanliness and sanitation campaign, through “Swachhta Hi Seva”.

Indian Coast Guard and Civil Agencies’ Role

Various civil agencies, Central and State government organizations, Municipal Corporations, NGOs, fisheries associations, ports, oil agencies, and other private enterprises participated in the campaign with zeal. Massive participation by enthusiastic NCC cadets, NSS, school and college students highlighted the level of awareness among the young generation and their commitment for clean beaches.

International Coastal Cleanup Day is important because it helps to raise awareness about the problem of marine pollution. It also provides an opportunity for people to take action and help to clean up the environment.

Marine Pollution

Marine pollution is a major problem that is having a devastating impact on the oceans and the marine life that lives there. Marine pollution can come from a variety of sources, including land-based runoff, industrial waste, and oil spills.

Marine pollution can have a number of negative impacts on the environment. It can harm marine life, pollute beaches, and make it difficult for people to enjoy the oceans. Marine pollution can also have a negative impact on the economy, as it can damage tourism and fisheries.