Brahmapur: A coastal clean-up and environmental awareness drive was conducted across key locations on the Odisha coast on September 18 and 19, under the nationwide ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 5.0’ (SSSS 5.0) initiative.
Led by the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) in collaboration with Centurion University and Berhampur University, the campaign mobilised 165 students, researchers and local residents to combat coastal pollution.
A key focus of the drive was the Gokarakuda-Purunabandha Olive Ridley nesting beach, where more than 75 volunteers gathered on September 19 to clear accumulated plastic waste and ghost fishing nets.
Marine experts observed that abandoned fishing gear and plastic debris pose severe threats to nesting Olive Ridley turtles and their hatchlings, often entangling the marine species or blocking the hatchlings’ path to the sea.
The initiative kicked off on Friday at Haripur Creek, where over 90 participants cleared coastal litter from the wetland area.
The clean-up was followed by an interactive workshop at Berhampur University’s Marine Sciences department, focusing on responsible waste management, marine litter reduction, and sustainable ocean practices.
“INCOIS remains committed to the objectives of Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 5.0 by promoting ocean awareness, scientific understanding, and community participation. Such initiatives are vital for reducing marine litter and protecting our coastal environment,” said INCOIS scientist Dr Sanjiba Baliarsingh.
Centurion University professor Dr Kamal Kumar Barik emphasised on the role of educational institutions, and noted that youth involvement helps build long-term civic responsibility toward marine conservation.
Berhampur University Head of Department of Marine Sciences Dr Tamoghna Acharyya highlighted the direct link between healthy coastal ecosystems and human well-being, calling for sustained collective action.
The two-day event concluded with a shared pledge among scientific bodies, universities and community members to curb plastic waste and safeguard Odisha’s delicate marine habitats.