DNA Micro Edit: BMC must act to give beaches a new lease of life

Astudy in 2016 by Reefwatch Marine Conservation had listed Versova beach as one of Mumbai's dirtiest beaches. However, persistent efforts by citizens for the past 87 weeks has now completely changed the shoreline of this beach.

Citizens who were tired of seeing their beach being littered all over with debris and garbage, not only decided to take the matter in their own hands, but also led a citizen powered clean-up campaign.

Despite of having a vast coastline and several beaches within city limits, the BMC and state government have failed miserably to care for these beaches and turn them into tourist or recreational spots.

Currently, most beaches apart from being dirty, do not have proper lights and families fear to visit as they are infested with anti-social elements or drug addicts.

What is worrying is that the BMC seems to be least concerned when it comes to cleaning up its beaches or rivers. It only comes forward to assist citizens who are left with no option but to pick the broom up themselves. Also, if they belong to an influential citizens group or have political backing.

While several citizens plan to emulate the Versova beach example and are planning to initiate similar campaigns at beaches like Aksa, Chimbai, Mahim and others, it is time for the BMC to stop contributing half- heartedly and instead rise to the occasion and lead the movement to give the city's beaches a new lease of life.