World Environment Day 2021 at SNC

SNC observed World Environment Day on 05 June 2021 with Ecosystem Restoration as the theme and waste segregation, plastic waste removal/ recycling, afforestation and mangrove restoration as focus areas. With the personal involvement Vice Admiral AK Chawla FOCINC SNC and active participation of more than 700 naval personnel, families and children, around 2 km stretch of the Venduruthy channel at Katari Bagh, Naval Base and other Naval residential areas in Kochi were cleared of plastic waste while restoring around 1 lakh sq m of mangrove to pristine condition. In addition, coastalc leanship was undertaken at Fort Kochi. The FOCINC also inspected the plastic waste handling facility in Katari Bagh. More than 450 saplings were planted by the participants from different Naval units at Kochi. Other outstation naval units located at Jamnagar, Lonavla, Chilka, Coimbatore, Goa, Ezhimala and Malad also enthusiastically conducted similar events towards environment protection and ecosystem restoration. Children of the Navy Children School and KVs at SNC shore units actively participated in the event through online lectures, slogan writing, poster making and painting competitions. A plantation drive under the guidance of President NWWA (SR) was also organised. Saplings of Bougainvillea and Hibiscus were planted along the periphery of Katari Bagh skirting the Venduruthy Channel. Host plants like Curry leaf plant and Lemon tree saplings that attract a wide variety of butterflies were also planted, providing a protective habitat for the butterflies to thrive. Following the plantation drive, a cycling trip was organised inside Katari Bagh. Cycling through the lush green environs with its flora and fauna was a rejuvenating experience and gave the families an opportunity to be in sync with nature. The FOCINC appreciated the participants of all the events for their industrious efforts and emphasised on the need for creating and nurturing a sustainable and healthy ecosystem for our future generations.