Residents of Laucala Beach came together with youth groups and volunteers yesterday to commemorate Girmit Day through a community clean-up campaign at the Bailey Bridge foreshore in Nasinu.
The Ministry of Environment says the initiative focused on removing rubbish from the coastal area, cleaning mangroves and raising awareness about the importance of protecting the environment and maintaining healthy communities.
Speaking during the event, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya says the campaign reflected the spirit of service, care and community responsibility associated with Girmit Day celebrations.
She says Laucala Beach, which falls within the Nasinu area, continues to face serious waste management challenges, and stressed the importance of collective action in addressing the issue.
Residents and volunteers also distributed eco-friendly bags, gloves and hand sanitisers as part of the awareness campaign.
Meanwhile, Laucala Beach resident Rajesh Maharaj, who initiated the clean-up, welcomed the support from government and community groups, saying improper waste disposal was negatively affecting both the environment and public health.
The clean-up campaign received strong support from the Laucala Beach Youth Group, residents of Maravu Settlement, the Hare Krishna Youth Group, Kinoya Youth Group and other members of the local community.
