As a part of ocean conservancy, the Environment Protection And Awareness Club (EPAC) of BITS-PILANI-K.K.Birla Goa campus in collaboration with US based NGO Ocean Conservancy took the initiative of holding a beach clean-up on the 25th of September,2011 on the occasion of International Coastal Cleanup Day. About 100 enthusiasts took part in this hugely anticipated event.The beach that was cleaned up was the Majorda beach. Goa is known for its majestic beaches and its impeccable marine life. Hence conserving the ocean is of umpteen importance.

At sharp 7:30am, the students assembled near the main gate. With sleep in many eyes,the bus journey for the most enriching experience began. After the the half hour ride,refreshments were served and then began the main task of cleaning the beach. The pristine waters of the majorda beach under the sparkling sun greeted us and lifted our spirits. The cleanup lasted for three hours where the students collected enough trash to fill 24 garbage bags weighing upto 80 kgs in all. Even the scorching sun could not act as a deterrent to our enthusiasm. Joining us in the novel and noble work were a few faculty members of BITS GOA. Materials collected included majorly plastic,beverage bottles,fishing nets,cigarettes and plastic lids.

The drive wound up by about 12 noon. A large portion of the beachline was cleared. The filled garbage bags and the by now exhausted students bore testimony to this. This was followed by a round of well deserved refreshing lime juice.

Truly this experience strengthened the feeling of global environmental awareness in all of us. It was a feeling of pride and honour for all of us to have participated in such a drive. We at EPAC clearly appreciate and endorse such drives. So people think twice before you litter anywhere anytime..

--Swati Humbad