A coastal cleanup drive at Elephanta Island in the Arabian Sea removed over 2.5 tonnes of marine debris on March 15, highlighting the growing threat of ocean waste even to globally protected heritage sites.

The initiative was organised by Sagarshakti, the coastal wing of Vanashakti, in collaboration with the Mangrove Cell of the Maharashtra Forest Department, Forest Department officials and the Paramparik Macchimar Sanghatana from Nhava, Gavhan, Diwale Koliwada and neighbouring coastal villages.

More than 60 participants, including members of the local fishing community, forest officials and volunteers, took part in the drive. Despite covering only, a 500-metre stretch of shoreline, the team removed over 2.5 tonnes of plastic waste, discarded fishing gear and other marine debris.

NatConnect director B. N. Kumar pointed out, “Even during mangrove cleanups at several locations across the Mumbai region, volunteers have been removing tonnes of plastic, footwear, medical waste and even discarded mattresses. We need greater vigilance by authorities on one hand and stronger public awareness on the other to help maintain the health of marine and coastal ecosystems.”

 The cleanup highlights the escalating challenge of marine pollution affecting even protected heritage landscapes such as Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also highlights the urgent need for stronger waste management systems and sustained community participation to safeguard coastal ecosystems.

“This once again reflects the sad way Mumbai treats its coasts,” observed NatConnect Foundation, while appreciating the efforts of Vanashakti and the volunteers.