Pune: Tamhini Ghat Plastic-Free Campaign Led by 140 Volunteers; 15.5 km Stretch Cleaned, 400 Kg of Plastic and Glass Waste Removed to Preserve Environment
On February 23, 2025, a large-scale cleanliness drive was organized on the occasion of Sant Gadge Maharaj Jayanti, covering an extensive 15.5 km stretch from Tamhini to Garud Machi. The campaign, which aimed to make Tamhini Ghat plastic-free, witnessed the active participation of 140 volunteers, who successfully collected and disposed of approximately 400 kg of plastic and glass waste.
The event commenced with the worship of Sant Gadge Maharaj’s idol, symbolizing the spirit of selfless service and community cleanliness. The introductory address was delivered by Shri Ankush Bhau More, who elaborated on the importance and objectives of the initiative.
Guidance and Support from Key Figures
The campaign received valuable guidance from Shri Vasant Limaye, the owner of Garud Machi and a well-known writer. His insights motivated the participants and reinforced the need for continuous efforts toward environmental sustainability.
The initiative was further supported by Shri Sameer Ingle, Shri Sonawane, and Shri Narwade, Range Forest Officers of the Maharashtra Forest Department. They emphasized that disciplinary action will be taken against individuals caught littering in the area, underscoring the importance of maintaining cleanliness in natural reserves.
Community Participation and Arrangements
The students of Vinjhai Mata School played a crucial role in making the event successful by organizing tea, breakfast, and meals for all volunteers, ensuring they remained energized throughout the campaign.
In his concluding remarks, Shri Santosh Bhumkar, Police Inspector and Founder of Adishakti Yuva Prerna Kendra, stated that the initiative would not end with this campaign. Instead, he emphasized the need to continue working towards a permanently plastic-free Tamhini Ghat.
A Collective Effort for a Greener Future
The Tamhini Ghat Plastic-Free Campaign was made possible through the collaboration of multiple organizations and individuals dedicated to environmental conservation. The following groups and entities contributed significantly to the initiative:
- Sardar Yashwant Mahadev Potnis Trust
- Adishakti Yuva Prerna Kendra
- Garud Machi
- Tulja Bhavani Trust
- Shri Rohan Sanjeev Deshpande
- Vinjhai Mata School
- Bharat Vikas Parishad
- Government of Maharashtra Forest Department
- Paud Police Station
- Helplast Bioplastics Pvt. Ltd.
- Shri Ankush Bhau More
The campaign sends a strong message to the public: Do not throw waste on roads or in forest areas. Efforts like these will help preserve the pristine beauty of Tamhini Ghat and ensure a healthier environment for future generations.
