Kadalundi Beach Cleaning and Bird Sanctuary Visit by NSS:
On October 2, 2024, in celebration of Gandhi Jayanti, KAHM Unity Women’s College, Manjeri mobilized a remarkable force of 98 NSS volunteers for a mega beach cleaning campaign at Kadalundi Beach, in line with the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 initiative. The event, which ran from 7 am to 7 pm, was marked by a spirited collaboration among students and Kadalundi Vallikkunnu Community Reserve (KVCR) members who shared a common vision to enhance environmental cleanliness and promote sustainable practices. The inauguration featured an address by Mr. Sivadasan P., the Chairman of the Community Reserve Management, who emphasized the essential role that community involvement plays in fostering environmental protection and sustainability. The campaign was coordinated by NSS Program Officers Mr. Haris U and Dr. Faseela P and NSS Secretaries Fathima Hashim and Hana Fathima.
Throughout the day, the dedication of the volunteers was evident as they worked diligently to clean the beach, focusing on the removal of plastic waste, litter, and other debris that detracted from the natural beauty of Kadalundi. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and commitment, as participants took pride in their contributions to the environment. After hours of hard work, the collected waste was responsibly handed over to the Kadalundi Panchayath for proper disposal, underscoring the importance of environmentally responsible waste management practices. This initiative aimed not only to restore the beach’s aesthetic appeal but also to cultivate a sense of ownership and accountability among the participants regarding their local environment.
Following the successful beach cleaning efforts, the volunteers embarked on a boat trip through the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, which provided a unique opportunity to observe the rich local wildlife and appreciate the interconnectedness of pollution, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. This educational excursion served as a crucial extension of the day’s activities, allowing the volunteers to witness firsthand the impacts of environmental degradation on wildlife habitats. During their visit, they explored the mangrove ecosystem within the Kadalundi Vallikkunnu Community Reserve and the significance of protecting natural habitats. This hands-on experience deepened the participant’s understanding of environmental issues, further motivating them to take action.
The day’s events served as a meaningful tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of cleanliness and community service, inspiring a renewed collective commitment to a cleaner, greener future. By intertwining environmental action with education, the NSS volunteers fostered a strong sense of responsibility toward sustainability and conservation among participants. The successful collaboration between volunteers, community members, and local authorities highlighted the importance of united efforts in achieving long-term ecological goals.