Navi Mumbai: India's inaugural large-scale ocean floor cleanup operation commenced in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg coral reefs, with seven certified scuba divers successfully collecting approximately 250 kg of non-biodegradable waste from the seabed.
This groundbreaking initiative, aimed at restoring marine biodiversity, was led by state agencies in collaboration with several NGOs, focusing on a 150m radius near Sindhudurg Fort.
The cleanup process involved meticulous extraction and disposal of predominantly discarded nylon fishing nets, which posed significant challenges underwater.
Ashok Kadam, a senior scientist from the Fisheries Survey of India, stated, "This is the first ocean floor cleanup drive organized by government and private bodies together. The program was conceptualized by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change of India to promote ocean conservation and maintain plastic-free coasts." The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the fisheries department spearheaded the effort, supported by local NGOs and community groups.
The Union ministry has allocated approximately Rs 40 crore for awareness programs aimed at ocean cleanliness, with plans to involve school and college students in future cleanup initiatives.
Marine debris, particularly ghost nets, poses a severe threat to marine life, entangling various species and disrupting ecosystems. Environmentalist D Stalin noted that these nets also detract from the area's natural beauty, impacting tourism in Malvan, a hub for coral reef exploration. Local fishermen have welcomed this initiative, recognizing its potential to enhance sustainable fisheries.