In a pioneering effort to restore marine ecosystems, Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg coral reefs have been rejuvenated with the removal of 300 kg of marine debris in the state’s first large-scale underwater cleanup. This initiative, led by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), Fisheries Survey of India, UNDP-Mangrove Cell, and NGO Vanashakti, targeted a 150-metre radius near Sindhudurg Fort, a hotspot for marine biodiversity and tourism.
Stalin D, Director of NGO Vanashakti, lauded the effort, describing it as a much-needed intervention for the preservation of ocean floors. “The Sindhudurg coral reefs were suffocating under ghost nets and non-degradable trash. Marine life, including crabs, turtles, and fish, were becoming trapped in this debris, causing significant damage to the ecosystem. This initiative has not only cleaned the area but has also created a more inviting experience for tourists who visit Malwan to explore the region’s vibrant marine life,” he said. The cleanup operation, part of the “Clean Shores” project, involved skilled scuba divers who meticulously retrieved debris entangled within the coral formations. While the task was arduous and required extensive manpower, the commitment of local divers and support from fishermen ensured the initiative’s success.
The economic implications for the region were significant, as littered coral sections had begun to deter tourists, adversely impacting livelihoods dependent on tourism and fishing. Stalin also highlighted the long-term support from the MPCB and the Fisheries Survey of India. “Cleaning the ocean floor is labour-intensive and costly, but it is essential for the health of marine ecosystems. With sustained efforts, we aim to establish clean, healthy marine zones across Sindhudurg’s coastline,” he added. As the campaign continues over the coming year, it is expected to bolster not only marine biodiversity but also the local economy, creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for Sindhudurg’s shores.
