By Welsey Pereira & Rahul Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On September 13, 2025, the students of Std. 9 and 10 from Don Bosco High School, Borivli (W) enthusiastically participated in a Beach Clean-up Drive organized by the school. The initiative was aimed at creating awareness among students about the importance of protecting our environment and reducing marine pollution. A total of 26 students took part in the drive, comprising 15 boys and 11 girls, along with 4 teachers who guided and supported them throughout the activity.

The day began with the students reporting to school at 8 a.m. After a short yet motivating briefing on the purpose of the drive and safety measures to be followed, the group left the campus at 8:15 a.m. and proceeded towards Gorai Beach. Upon arrival at around 9 a.m., the students were warmly welcomed by the BMC workers, who had come forward to assist them and explain the process of the clean-up operation. Each participant was provided with gloves and masks to ensure safety and hygiene during the activity.

The clean-up drive commenced with great energy and determination. The students, divided into smaller groups, spread across different sections of the beach and began collecting litter such as plastic bottles, wrappers, polythene bags, broken glass pieces, discarded thermocol, and other non-biodegradable waste materials. Working alongside the BMC staff gave them a sense of teamwork and civic responsibility. The students were shocked to see the extent of pollution caused by human negligence and careless disposal of waste. They also realized how such harmful practices affect marine life, spoil the scenic beauty of beaches, and endanger the balance of the ecosystem.

During the activity, teachers highlighted the importance of reducing plastic use, segregating waste, and encouraging community participation in environmental protection. This hands-on experience not only helped the students understand the seriousness of marine pollution but also instilled in them the values of responsibility, teamwork, and social commitment.

By 10:15 a.m., after more than an hour of hard work, the students had collected a significant amount of waste. They were then provided with snacks and refreshments, which helped them regain their energy. As they rested, many students expressed their joy at being part of such a meaningful initiative. They shared how the activity opened their eyes to the urgent need for conservation and their determination to make eco-friendly choices in daily life.

The group left Gorai Beach soon after and reached back to school safely by 11:15 a.m. The students described the drive as a memorable and eye-opening experience. It gave them an opportunity to work together for a noble cause and strengthened their resolve to spread awareness about keeping our surroundings clean. The Beach Clean-up Drive truly proved to be a practical lesson in environmental responsibility, leaving the students inspired to contribute towards a cleaner and greener planet.