Indian Coast Guard Leads Massive Coastal Clean-up 2025
Newz Daddy Defence Updates
Coast Guard District Headquarters No.15 (North Gujarat) organised a grand coastal clean-up drive on 20 Sep 25 at Okha Beach, Dwarka, to mark International Coastal Clean-up Day—part of a global initiative to preserve and protect our marine ecosystems through collaborative community action.
International Coastal Clean-up Day is observed every third Saturday of September in more than 100 countries. It was started in 1986 by the Ocean Conservancy in the US. The goal is to remove plastic and other harmful waste from beaches and oceans, which threaten marine life like turtles, dolphins, and fish.
The event was flagged off by the District Commander, Okha, in the gracious presence of the distinguished Chief Guest Shri Rino Raj, VPM & Site Head, Tata Chemicals Ltd, Mithapur. Their leadership and commitment towards environmental conservation inspired all present to take collective responsibility for maintaining cleaner coasts and safer seas.
Tata Chemicals has been active in the Okha and Mithapur region for decades and runs several community initiatives, including marine conservation, mangrove plantation, and coral reef restoration. Their partnership with the Coast Guard reflects how industry leaders can help protect local ecosystems.
Indian Coast Guard’s steadfast commitment witnessed participation of more than 1,300 personnel from Coast Guard Stations Okha and units under command. ICGS Vadinar, Mundra and Jakhau joined the massive effort, alongside active participation of over 500 local school students, volunteers, Marine Police, civil society members and other agencies, organisations and institutes. The campaign began with a ribbon-cutting by the Chief Guests and a pledge for “Clean Seas, Safe Seas,” setting a tone of camaraderie and service.
Large-scale participation shows how coastal protection is a shared duty. The Coast Guard has earlier led similar drives in Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi, often clearing several tons of plastic waste. The involvement of students helps build a culture of environmental care in younger generations.
Clean-up teams covered the stretch from Okha Lighthouse to Pawan Chakki, about 2.5 km, collecting and responsibly disposing of approximately 750 kg of litter. All waste was handed over to Nagarpalika, Okha, for safe processing. The event, held under the banner of “Swachhata hi Sewa,” powerfully reflected the resolve of government agencies, industry leaders, and local communities to sustain a vibrant, pollution-free coastline for future generations.
Studies show that nearly 12 million tonnes of plastic enter oceans every year. Beaches like those in Gujarat often face threats from fishing nets, single-use plastic, and industrial waste. Proper disposal and recycling, as done in this drive, prevent toxic waste from harming marine habitats. Linking with “Swachhata hi Sewa” echoes the national cleanliness campaign inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s vision.
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