Sri Vijaya Puram, April 20: Concerns over coastal pollution and rising waste accumulation along beaches came into focus after a large-scale clean-up drive was conducted at Ramnagar Beach in Diglipur on April 18, drawing participation from multiple government departments and local residents.
The initiative, led by Gram Panchayat Ramnagar, brought together over 100 participants, including officials, staff members and villagers, in a coordinated effort to remove waste and restore the cleanliness of the beach. The drive was carried out in association with several line departments, reflecting a joint response to environmental concerns affecting the coastline.
Participating agencies included the Forest Department (Kalighat Range), Wildlife Division Kalara, Kalighat Police, ICDS Diglipur, Panchayati Raj Institutions, APWD, GSS Ramnagar, and other stakeholders. The collaboration aimed to address visible waste accumulation while also building awareness around the need for sustained environmental responsibility.
The programme was inaugurated by Block Development Officer Diglipur, M. Rajendra Kumar, who addressed participants and stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness under the Swachh Bharat Mission framework. He highlighted the role of local governance in promoting both environmental protection and community-led development initiatives.
Officials said the clean-up operation led to the removal of a significant amount of waste from the beach area, contributing to an immediate improvement in the condition of the shoreline. The exercise also served as a platform to engage the local community on issues related to waste management and conservation of coastal ecosystems.
Residents and participants were encouraged to take collective responsibility for maintaining cleanliness and preserving the natural character of the area. The involvement of multiple departments underscored the need for coordinated action in tackling environmental challenges that directly impact public spaces and local livelihoods.
Gram Panchayat Ramnagar acknowledged the support extended by all participating departments and community members. It stated that such initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to promote a cleaner and more sustainable environment in the region.
The drive also reflects broader concerns around maintaining ecological balance in coastal areas, particularly in regions that rely on natural resources and tourism. Authorities indicated that continued public participation remains essential to ensure long-term impact beyond one-time clean-up activities.
The Gram Panchayat reiterated its commitment to organising similar drives in the future, focusing on sustained awareness and community engagement to address environmental issues at the grassroots level.
