Mann Ki Baat: PM Narendra Modi Lauds Scuba Drivers From Visakhapatnam Who Removed 4,000 Kilograms Of Plastic Waste From The Sea

New Delhi: On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 59th edition of his monthly radio programme ”Mann Ki Baat”. PM Modi outlined a success story of a few scuba divers from Visakhapatnam and how they have led a successful battle against plastic waste. He said, “I was reading a story in the media on scuba divers and how they have helped remove plastic waste from sea. This is a story that can be inspiring for all Indians.”

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Explaining what these scuba divers did differently, PM Modi added,

One day, these scuba divers, who have been trained in Visakhapatnam, were obstructed by plastic bottles and pouches on their way back from the sea on Mangamaripeta beach. While they cleaned that litter, they found the matter of deep concern. They were so shocked at the way our sea is being littered with garbage and all things plastic that they decided to clean the mess on their own.

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PM Modi stated that the group of divers started a clean-up initiative on their own. He adds,  

These divers started doing scuba diving for a swachh cause. They dive deep and take out the garbage and plastic lying around. In around two weeks, these divers have helped remove more than 4000 kilograms of plastic waste from the sea. This small beginning by the divers is being transformed into a big mission now.

PM Modi also urged people to take inspiration from these divers and pledge to beat plastic pollution, he said,

Pondering over, taking inspiration from these scuba divers, if we too, take a pledge to rid our surroundings of plastic waste, “Plastic Free India” can become a new example for the whole world.

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Along with this successful story, PM Modi also talked about Pushkara, a festival dedicated to worshiping rivers and how this year Assam was a great host for the festival. He said,

The organiSers here had paid great attention to cleanliness. They ensured plastic-free zones. Bio-toilets were also provided at many places. I hope that this ancient festival that has helped create a positive mindset towards rivers among us, will continue to bring our future generations closer to the rivers. Nature, environment, water – all these things should not only be part of our tourism – they should also be a part of our lives.