Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar. 10:A concerned tourist has written a heartfelt letter to the Andaman Sheekha team highlighting the growing problem of plastic waste at Bharatpur Beach in Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island), one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
In his letter, the visitor, Amitesh, expressed deep concern after witnessing heaps of plastic bottles, waste and debris scattered along the shoreline during his recent visit to the beach. Bharatpur Beach, known for its clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, attracts a large number of tourists every year. However, the tourist noted that the presence of plastic waste along the beach vegetation and sand was alarming and could harm both the fragile marine ecosystem and the tourism image of the islands.
The tourist also shared photographs taken during his visit which reportedly show significant accumulation of plastic waste along parts of the shoreline.
While acknowledging that waste management in remote island ecosystems can be challenging, he stressed the need for stronger and more consistent measures to keep the beach clean. In his letter, Amitesh urged the authorities to organize an immediate cleanup drive to remove the existing plastic waste before it is washed into the sea and causes further damage to marine life.
He also suggested the development of a long-term waste management strategy involving local panchayats, tourism operators and environmental organizations. According to him, installing more waste bins and ensuring regular cleaning could help maintain the beach in a better condition.
Additionally, the tourist recommended the establishment of a monitoring mechanism to ensure daily maintenance of the beach and proper disposal of collected waste at designated processing facilities.
Expressing hope for positive action, the visitor said that with the collective efforts of the administration, environmental groups and the media, Bharatpur Beach could be restored to its original beauty and continue to attract visitors while protecting the islands’ fragile environment.
