Volunteers clean up Yamuna with UN backing

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 14

Delhiites turned out in large numbers to volunteer for a Yamuna Shramdaan or clean-up campaign aimed at drawing attention to the important role volunteering can play in cleaning the polluted river that is the lifeline for 60 million people in the country.

Responding to the call of the Prime Minister to volunteer for a Swacch Bharat or Clean India, an event was organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, United Nations Volunteers and UN Development Programme with the support of various civil society organizations.

The cleanliness drive began at 7 am with over 500 cyclists undertaking an 18-km ride to spread the message of volunteering. Their route ended at the banks of the Yamuna at Kudsia Ghat near ISBT Kashmere Gate where they joined thousands of people from all walks of life. Many of those volunteering were young people.

Speaking at the clean-up event, Rajeev Gupta, Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, said, "India has the largest youth population in the world, and it is heartening to see the youth turn out in such large numbers to clean the Yamuna. The Prime Minister's call for Swachh Bharat has given rise to this mobilization."

Commending the government on the Clean India campaign, Lise Grande, United Nations Resident Coordinator said, "The Clean India campaign is a great initiative. Volunteers can contribute directly to help meet the objectives of the Prime Minister's campaign."