The Department of Environmental Science, Government Degree College (GDC) Boys Sopore, in collaboration with ActionAid EducTrain Foundation, observed World Rivers Day by organising an awareness and cleanliness drive along the banks of River Jhelum in Sopore on Saturday.
The programme was conducted under the guidance of Worthy Principal Prof. Dr. Syed Muzaffar Ahmad, with the objective of promoting environmental awareness, responsible waste management and active community participation in the protection and conservation of local water bodies.
The cleanliness drive was led by Dr. Sana Shafi, Head, Department of Environmental Science, who coordinated the programme and motivated students towards active participation in environmental conservation. Dr. Manzoor A. Bhat, Faculty, Department of Environmental Science, along with other faculty members, also guided and encouraged the students throughout the activity.
A significant number of Environmental Science major students participated enthusiastically in the cleanliness drive. Students, faculty members, NCC cadets, Municipal Council employees and representatives of ActionAid EducTrain Foundation carried out a systematic cleaning activity along an identified stretch of the River Jhelum.
A considerable quantity of solid waste and garbage was collected from the riverbank, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to maintain the cleanliness and ecological health of the river.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Sana Shafi said the programme was organised along the River Jhelum to create greater awareness among students and the wider community about environmental protection and cleanliness.
She said that despite living in a digital era, pollution and lack of cleanliness continue to remain serious concerns in society, including in streets, neighbourhoods and public places.
Dr. Sana Shafi emphasised the importance of educating the younger generation about keeping their surroundings clean and protecting the environment. She said the Department regularly organises awareness programmes within the college, but this time the initiative was taken directly to the banks of the River Jhelum so that students could participate in practical environmental conservation activities and convey the message of cleanliness to the wider public.
She further appealed to people to avoid littering, keep their surroundings clean and contribute towards building a healthier and pollution-free environment.
ActionAid EducTrain Foundation provided necessary protective materials and supplies for the drive, including gloves, caps, masks and aprons, ensuring that participating students and staff could undertake the activity safely and in an organised manner.
The waste collected during the cleanliness drive was subsequently handed over to the Municipal Council Sopore for proper disposal and waste management.
The programme concluded successfully with active participation from students, faculty members and representatives of the collaborating organisations.
The initiative served as a meaningful effort towards river conservation, environmental awareness, responsible waste management and community participation in protecting the River Jhelum.
