JAMMU: The Department of Environmental Sciences and Green Campus Task Force (GCTF-JU), University of Jammu organized the ‘Save Tawi Campaign’ to create awareness among the local community regarding the causes and consequences of immersion of plastic and other materials, along with the Khetri into the River.
The campaign was organized during the last two days of Navratri festival on the banks of River Tawi. People were also sensitised about the importance of of keeping the water bodies clean. The students collected materials like chunri, coconuts, pots, plastic waste, etc., from the devotees at the entry point itself, segregated them, and allowed the immersion of Khetri into the river. The students and volunteers also engaged with the devotees directly, imparting knowledge about the adverse impacts of waste on river water quality and aquatic biota.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Piyush Malaviya, Head Department of Environmental Sciences and Convener, GCTF-JU emphasized the need to prevent the dumping of non-biodegradable materials such as plastics and polybags in the river and the adoption of adequate measures for the protection and conservation of the river Tawi and other aquatic ecosystems.
Dr. Deepika Slathia, Member Secretary, GCTF-JU said that such student-centric campaigns make them conscious and responsible towards environment. These interactions with the masses not only provide practical knowledge of the causes of water pollution but also instill in them a sense of urgency to find practical solutions for the conservation of our invaluable water resources. The devotees appreciated the efforts of the department and fully cooperated in making the campaign successful. Others who participated in the event included Dr. Ravinder Kumar, and Dr. Ranjan Sharma from the department.