Coastal Cleanup Drive in Kollam Strengthens Fight Against Drugs and Social Crimes

A coastal cleaning drive near Galilee Colony in Kollam, part of Operation Thufan – The Narco Hunt, was organised by Mukti Theeram to address environmental concerns and raise public awareness of drug trafficking and social crimes in neglected coastal areas.

Kollam Mayor A. K. Hafees inaugurated the event and reaffirmed the government’s support for Mukti Theeram’s efforts to promote the welfare and development of the coastal community. Port Kollam Councillor Vincy Baiju also offered her greetings and appreciated the initiative.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr. Saji Elambasseril SDB, Director of FCDP–TMS, highlighted the significance of the cleaning drive and stressed the importance of community participation in preventing the spread of drug abuse. He called for greater public awareness and stronger preventive measures to combat the growing drug menace.

The programme witnessed the participation of representatives from civic, religious, and community organisations, including Kailkulangara Councillor Preetha J., Thope Parish Vicar Fr. Benjamin SDB, CSI Cathedral Vicar Fr. Paul David, Fr. Jaison SDB, Fr. Antony SDB, Port Kollam Parish Vicar Fr. Manoj Antony, Assistant Vicar Fr. Ramesh Rajamani, Nanma Maram Coordinator Jacob, Sisters Annie Joseph, Annie Augustine, and Mary Scaria, along with FCDP–TMS staff, members of the Excise Department’s Thunderbolt Team, Kudumbashree and ASHA workers, KLCA representatives, the Alcohol De-addiction Committee, and local residents.

During the programme, participants drew officials’ attention to environmental issues, including the accumulation of waste along the seashore and a temporary waterlogged area caused by stagnant wastewater.

Organisers said the initiative combined environmental action and social awareness, mobilising the public to remain vigilant against crime and to protect coastal communities.