Sri Vijaya Puram | September 21, 2026
Swaraj Dweep Forest Division conducted a beach cleaning campaign at the designated Blue Flag Beach, Radhanagar, on September 19, 2026, as part of International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICCD) 2026. More than 300 volunteers participated in the campaign, representing various government departments, stakeholder groups and the local community.
The campaign saw participation from Pradhans and PRI members of Shyam Nagar and Govind Nagar Panchayats, hoteliers from Taj Resort, Barefoot and other hotels, lifeguards, trek guides, tour operators, photographers, members of the Association of Restaurants, vendors, school students and teachers, women, local villagers, NGOs and other members of the community.
Despite intermittent heavy rain, participants actively took part in the beach cleaning drive and awareness activities. The campaign highlighted the importance of keeping beaches free from garbage, protecting the world’s oceans and beaches, and addressing the problem of waste entering the marine environment.
As part of the programme, a pledge was administered to the participants, reaffirming their commitment towards maintaining a clean and safe coastal environment and promoting sustainable tourism. Around 20 forestry saplings were also planted along the coast under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” plantation initiative.
The programme also featured a coastal clean-up activity titled “Plogging”, during which participants walked along the beach while collecting waste. A signature campaign and selfie corner were organised to encourage greater public participation and raise awareness about coastal conservation.
Prize distribution was also conducted for the first, second and third prize winners of the poster and sand art competitions held among children.
To facilitate certification of participation, QR codes were placed at accessible locations within the beach premises, enabling participants to obtain individual certificates for their involvement in the beach cleaning activity.
The campaign aimed to reinforce the importance of collective community action, stakeholder participation and responsible waste management in maintaining clean, safe and sustainable coastal areas.
