Madikeri: The Clean Kodagu campaign on Wednesday set a remarkable precedent in community-driven environmental initiative. Held across the picturesque district of Kodagu, known for its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere, the campaign united people from all walks of life, across party, caste, and religion. This historic event saw the participation of over 300 organisations.The drive was hosted by the Coorg Hotels and Resorts Association and included the district administration, Kodagu zilla panchayat, and various civic and educational institutions. The campaign, which took place from 8am to 11am, involved volunteers cleaning urban and rural areas, focusing on roadsides, public spaces, and forest edges.In Madikeri, the campaign was inaugurated by MLA Manthar Gowda and deputy commissioner Venkat Raja, who actively participated in it. The involvement of prominent local organisations and hundreds of volunteers underscored the community’s commitment to maintaining the district’s natural beauty. Manthar Gowda emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in preserving Kodagu’s environment, highlighting the need for year-round cleanliness awareness and the reduction of single-use plastics.Venkat Raja said that the collected waste would be scientifically disposed of, with plans for ongoing monitoring and involvement of govt officials and nodal officers. Kundyolanda Dinesh Cariappa, president of the Coorg Hotels and Resorts Association, articulated the campaign’s long-term vision of making Kodagu a plastic-free district. He stressed the importance of responsible tourism and the role of tourism-dependent communities in driving this initiative.A significant aspect of the campaign was the involvement of school and college students, who participated in large numbers. Their engagement is seen as crucial in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among the younger generation.
