18 hours ago
‘World Oceans Day' brings spotlight on marine conservation
Visakhapatnam: Marking the 'World Oceans Day' and focusing on marine conservation, a beach clean-up activity was undertaken by Andhra University. Involving staff, research scholars and students, the programme was held on Sunday at RK Beach. Volunteering to build an ocean-friendly community, scientists and technical staff from NCCR, CMFRI, CIFT, NIO and NSTL also participated in the event.
Centred on the theme 'wonder: sustaining what sustains us', the volunteers highlighted the importance of keeping the coastline clean and plastic-free. The awareness programme was flagged off by Vice Chancellor of Andhra University GP Raja Sekhar in the presence of MVR Raju, Principal of Science College, among others. Speaking on the occasion, the VC emphasised the importance of marine ecology and the need to safeguard the seas for future generations. About 100 volunteers participated in the programme. An ambulance service with medical and paramedical staff was deployed at the beach to meet any medical emergency. About 135-kg of debris was collected and handed over to GVMC Visakhapatnam for further disposal and recycling.
The programme was supported by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, among others. Marking the occasion, the beach clean-up programme was simultaneously carried out in 21 beaches across the country at the same time in 21 beaches.
