Mumbai, September 25, 2025: Marking International Coastal Cleanup Day on September 20, VFS Global and Bhumi mobilized more than 2,700 volunteers across Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi to clear marine waste and restore polluted shorelines. The drive resulted in the collection of 3,970 kilograms (3.97 tons) of plastic, debris, and abandoned fishing gear, making it one of the largest citizen-led clean-up initiatives of the year.
In city-wise highlights, 730 kg of debris was collected from Marina Beach in Chennai, 1,270 kg of plastic waste and fishing nets were cleared from Juhu Beach in Mumbai, and 1,970 kg of marine litter, including discarded fishing gear, was removed from Fort Kochi Beach.
Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global, said, “At VFS Global, we believe that environmental stewardship and community engagement go hand in hand. Our partnership with Bhumi for these beach clean-ups reflects our commitment to measurable environmental impact while fostering a culture of volunteerism. It was heartening to see our employees join hands with more than 2,700 volunteers, showing that collective action can drive real change. Together, we are inspiring collective steps toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
Neha Shrivastava, Director, Corporate Volunteering, Bhumi, added, “The health of our oceans directly impacts our planet and future generations. This initiative showed the power of citizens, corporates, students, and NGOs coming together for a common cause. Beyond removing waste, we’re building long-term awareness and community-led climate resilience.”
The initiative brought together a diverse group of college students, corporate professionals, NGOs, and residents, highlighting the potential of collaborative action to combat marine pollution and protect coastal ecosystems.
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