Date : 23rd and 24th of June 2007.
Venue : Thotamuna, Matara, (Southern Sri Lanka)
Conducted by : The Youth Group , Savisthri Organization, Matara Background /
Introduction
The tsunami which struck the coastal belt of Sri Lanka on 26.12.2004 left a trail of death and destruction.
After the survey carried out regarding Disaster Management, it was suggested to plant coast protection plants in a few selected areas. The Thotamuna coast is one such selected area and before embarking on cleaning work, a discussion was held with the villagers. As decided at the discussion, the coast line was cleaned as a preliminary step.
Aim
Preparation of the environment selected for planting trees.
Induce the youth for environmental programmes.
To keep the masses aware of the importance of environment conservation programme and get their contribution for such activities.
Participation
Members both males and females of "Savisthri" youth groups, members of the Savisthri Mini Bank Societies, men, women and children of the Thotamuna village and activists of the Southern Fisheries Organization participated in this programme of cleaning the relevant site.
The cleaning programme of the Totamuna coastal area commenced at 900 hrs. on 23rd and 24th of June 2007 and the participants were grouped and were allotted specific areas for cleaning. Everybody who participated performed their work with zeal and devotion and the work ended at 1630 hrs.
Mention must be made that there were more participants than expected. Even the members of various socities and organization in the area too contributed their might. This could be cited as an achievement.
On the second day there was less participation and lack of first aid facilities could be considered as failures.
People contributed their share in obtaining the necessary implements required for cleaning purposes. They themselves made provision for the supply of tea to the participants in the morning and afternoon.
"Helpo" institute gave it's assistance in the supply of the requisite implements and activists of the Southern Fisheries Organization contributed it's share in the co-ordination work.
The tree planting programme is scheduled to be carried out in the near future.
