In commemoration of Earth Day (22nd April), the D. Y. Patil Climate Action Lab (D-CAL), in collaboration with the Bhamla Foundation, organized a large-scale environmental cleanup event—CleanAthon—on 25th April 2025. With a powerful turnout of over 500 participants, the initiative spotlighted the urgent need to combat plastic pollution and protect our coastal and marine ecosystems.

Objective

The CleanAthon aimed to:

• Prevent pollution at the source.
• Remove harmful plastics to reduce the risk of bioaccumulation.
• Clear toxic pollutants from natural environments.

By restoring the Mithi Riverfront, the drive promoted a healthier and safer ecosystem while raising awareness about the threats of non-biodegradable waste. Clean beaches and riverbanks not only support biodiversity but also enhance community well-being and boost local economies.

Event Highlights

Held at the Mithi River near Mahim Causeway, CleanAthon began early in the morning as volunteers assembled at 7:00 AM IST. The event formally commenced at 7:30 AM with a warm welcome and addresses by a lineup of eminent dignitaries from diverse fields.

Participants were provided with essential materials such as gloves, masks, and refuse bags. Following motivational speeches, the cleanup operation was launched, where volunteers diligently worked to remove waste ranging from plastic wrappers and cans to large discarded items like fishing nets and carpets.

Distinguished Guests & Speakers

The event was honored by the presence of renowned personalities and environmental advocates:

• Rajlakshmi V. Patil, Founder, D-CAL
• Vedang Raina, Youth Ambassador
• Farah Khan, Bhamla Foundation Ambassador
• Lakshmi Manchu, Swachh Bharat Ambassador (Govt. of India)
• Poonam Mahajan, Former Member of Parliament
• Suraj Jairaj Thacker, Trustee, Narsee Monjee Educational Trust
• Warda Khan S. Nadiadwala, Film Producer and Journalist
• Ishitta Arun, Actress, Writer, and Lyricist

These guests lent not only their voices but their presence on-ground, inspiring the youth and community members alike.

Participants & Teams

The event saw enthusiastic participation from:

• Students of D.Y. Patil Deemed-to-be University
• D-CAL Ambassadors and Steering Committee Members
• Students from Jamnabai Narsee School
• Social Media and Volunteer Teams

DCAL Committee Present:

• Vidhya Srinivas
• Shraavya Rao
• Gurman Randhawa
• Roshini Kalliath
• Thisya Shashidhara
• Arin Kumar
• Piyush Sonawane
• Anushka Gujar

Location & Setup

The clean-up drive was meticulously organized along the Mithi Riverfront, with designated stations for supply distribution and guest coordination. The setting reinforced the urgency of the mission—visibly polluted shores that needed immediate action.

Conclusion

Plastics are persistent pollutants, and when they break down into microplastics, they introduce toxins into the food chain—ultimately impacting marine life and human health. The CleanAthon 2025 was a compelling response to this crisis.

With powerful speeches, celebrity engagement, active youth participation, and strong media coverage, the event was a resounding success. It not only transformed a polluted riverfront but also ignited a shared commitment to sustainability among all who attended.

DY Patil Climate Action Lab reaffirms its dedication to a cleaner, greener future and will continue to champion environmental action through meaningful and collaborative initiatives.