Mumbai: On the occasion of World Earth Day on Tuesday, April 22, a nine-day state-wide lake clean-up and conversation campaign was launched, led by environment and climate change minister Pankaja Munde and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). It commenced from Mumbai's Powai Lake and on Tuesday early morning, when a clean-up activity near Ganesh Ghat was held.
Minister Munde, MPCB Chairman Siddhesh Kadam, member secratary Avinash Dhakne, local leaders and along with NGOs like Vanshakti, Nisarg Sansthan, Helping Hands, Paryavaran Dakshata Manch, Burhani Foundation and National Service Scheme (NSS) participated in the Powai Lake clean-up.
Munde said that the campaign will run from April 22 (World Earth Day) to May 1 (Maharashtra Day) and all Municipal Corporations, Councils and Gram Panchayats are urged to hold lake clean-up and conservation activities, in association with citizens. She said citizens and local authorities should take initiatives to conserve natural water sources and promote Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
President of Vanshakti, Stalin D, who participated in the Powai lake clean-up and conservation activity on Tuesday said that apart up cleanup drive, coordination among agencies and another multiple issues must be addressed to conserve water bodies. 'Much of money is spent on Powai lake which is not justified," the environmentalist said.
"It was very encouraging to see the environment minister on ground and showing interest in the conservation of Powai lake. The lake is the neglected jewel of Mumbai. The multitude of BMC agencies involved with the lake is seriously hampering it's conservation. There are quick fix cheap solutions to tackle the various issues pertaining to the lake but BMC needs to reach out and nominate the right officer to take decisions," Stalin added.
Avinash Dhakne, secretary of MPCB said all district local authorities in the state are urged to carry such clean-up and conservation of lakes, adding that a planning meeting is organised on Wednesday to take the campaign forward.
Stalin, however, highlighted that MPCB is not a body that is supposed to do clean ups but here it has taken the lead to try and get things in place for a long term vision for Powai which is a Lake of National importance even in MoEF records. "We are hopeful with a coordinated effort, we can showcase Powai lake as n conservation and tourism model.
