Mumbai, 7th December 2024 — The shores of Mahim Beach witnessed an inspiring transformation as Gully Classes Foundation, in collaboration with Belgium-based River Cleanup, spearheaded a large-scale effort to combat marine pollution and restore the beach’s natural beauty.
A United Front Against Pollution Acting Local, Thinking Global: Mahim Beach Cleanup in Action
The day began with an opening ceremony led by Abdul Munaf, Founder and Director of Gully Classes Foundation, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of community-driven environmental initiatives. Volunteers were equipped with reusable gloves to ensure safety and sustainability, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to reducing waste in every aspect of the cleanup.
Over 90 enthusiastic volunteers joined the effort, representing the Foundation, NSS units of RJ College, SIES College, and international participants such as Junta from Japan and Benasif Fatima from Sri Lanka. Their global perspectives underscored the universal need for environmental action. Key core members of Gully Classes Foundation — Hakim Shaikh, Uzair Shaikh, Arslan Shaikh, Oman Patel, Amaan Bagwan, Taslim Shaikh, Amaan Ansari, Rohit Kanaujiya, Veerpat Sharma, Arjun, and Vicky — ensured the smooth execution of the drive.
Turning the Tide
In just two hours, the team successfully removed 4 tonnes of waste from Mahim Beach, including plastic, glass, and other non-biodegradable materials. This monumental effort shed light on the severe environmental challenges plaguing Mumbai’s coastal areas.
The cleanup also offered a platform for important conversations about sustainability. At the closing ceremony, Abdul Munaf passed the stage to CA Abdul Kareem, who shared motivational insights and announced mentorship opportunities for students seeking career guidance.
Inspiring Sustainable Change
Environmental advocate Purushotham Thakur urged participants to reduce single-use plastics in their daily lives by adopting habits like carrying reusable water bottles and minimizing disposable plastic usage. His call to action resonated with the crowd, reinforcing the importance of individual responsibility in combating environmental degradation.
The initiative also garnered support from Anwar Shahab, a member of the Mahim Bay Beach Committee, who praised the event and emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration to protect Mumbai’s marine ecosystems.
A Global Movement for Change
The Mahim Beach Cleanup demonstrated that environmental action is not just about removing waste — it’s about inspiring sustainable lifestyles and fostering a deeper connection with nature. The presence of international participants and collaboration with River Cleanup highlighted the global urgency of tackling pollution and restoring ecosystems.
In Abdul Munaf’s words, “This effort is more than just a cleanup; it’s a movement for change. Each volunteer here has contributed to a brighter, cleaner future for our city.”
The Way Forward Acting Local, Thinking Global: Mahim Beach Cleanup in Action
The initiative was powered by the unwavering support of River Cleanup, whose expertise has bolstered Gully Classes Foundation’s environmental projects for the past four years. As the Foundation continues to lead impactful efforts, the Mahim Beach Cleanup stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the power of collective action in creating a cleaner, more sustainable world. Acting Local, Thinking Global: Mahim Beach Cleanup in Action
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