Alumni Cleanliness Drive Sparks Coastal Conservation Efforts in Goa

Goa, December 12, 2024: The St. Joseph Vaz College Alumni Association organized a successful cleanliness drive at Kakolem Beach, Goa on December 8 aiming to preserve its natural beauty. Spearheaded by President Tejeswa Naik and supported by Project Directors Fran Fernandes and Leo Faleiro, this first-ever alumni initiative drew 12 participants who collected 12 bags of plastic waste, ensuring proper disposal. The effort highlighted the association’s commitment to environmental conservation and inspired collective action among locals and tourists.

The drive gained significant local support, with Capt. Venzy Viegas, MLA of Benaulim, providing refreshments and Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa contributing resources. Cola Panchayat Panch Member Priyanka Velip not only praised the alumni’s dedication but also actively participated, pledging ongoing support for the beach's upkeep. Alumni Convenor Asst. Prof. Fr. Bolmax Pereira lauded the team's efforts, emphasizing their role in addressing Goa’s growing litter problem and inspiring proactive solutions. “It’s disheartening to witness these natural treasures getting dirtier, but it’s inspiring to see this young team stepping up to be part of the solution,” he remarked.

Beyond cleanup efforts, the team engaged with shack owners and tourists, advocating for responsible waste management. Project Director Fran Fernandes raised concerns about littering, the dangers of abandoned glass bottles, and the negative environmental impact of unregulated tourism. He urged stricter enforcement of beach regulations and responsible social media content to prevent overcrowding and pollution of unexplored beaches.

President Tejeswa expressed gratitude to the team for transforming a casual discussion into impactful action. 

Addressing residents’ complaints about inconsistent waste collection despite regular payments to the panchayat, he called for urgent intervention to restore the area’s pristine condition. He also encouraged environmentally conscious groups to organize similar initiatives, fostering a collective responsibility to protect Goa's natural treasures.

The event featured heartfelt participation from alumna Mercy Fernandes, who joined with her one-year-old daughter Miriam as the chief guest, and alumni members Leancy Mathais and Sabira Shaikh, who passionately urged everyone to take ownership of beach cleanliness. Flower pots were presented to the Project Directors as tokens of appreciation, marking the success of this impactful initiative.

By Fr. Bolmax Pereira