Call to save seas from plastic

Visakhapatnam: Emphasising the need to keep the seas trash-free, clean-up drive and awareness programmes were held to mark the 'World Oceans Day' observed here on Saturday. In connection with this, an awareness drive 'Let us join hands to protect our ocean' was organised by the GVMC in association with India Youth for Society along with other organisations and associations at Jodugullapalem beach stretch.

Sensitising the passers-by in the area, volunteers underlined the need to keep the oceans, covering three-fourth of earth's surface, clean. Holidaymakers were asked to avoid plastic and maintain the surroundings litter-free.

President of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation G Sambasiva Rao, who participated in the drive, said that beaches draw lakhs of locals and tourists throughout the year. He added that each individual plays a role in keeping the seas plastic-free as marine litter poses a threat to aquatic eco system and humans through seafood.

The clean-up drive initiated by the GVMC drew several Swachh Bharat ambassadors, staff of Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board, among others. Displaying placards that read 'I love Vizag Beach,' the initiative was attended by Vice-Chancellor of Centurion University GSN Raju, executive engineer of Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board R Lakshminarayana and Swachh Bharat ambassadors Shirin Rehman and V Balamohandas, among others.