Gangasagar : In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, the West Bengal government has launched a comprehensive cleanliness drive aimed at transforming the Gangasagar Mela 2026 into a fully eco-friendly event. The initiative is being jointly implemented by the state Environment Department, the South 24 Parganas district administration and the Gangasagar–Bakkhali Development Authority (GBDA) at Sagar Island.
The campaign witnessed active leadership from Sundarbans Development Minister Bankim Chandra Hazra, who personally participated in the cleanliness drive. The sight of the minister sweeping the mela premises himself generated enthusiasm among pilgrims and local residents, underlining the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and public cleanliness.
Several senior officials and community leaders took part in the initiative, including BDO Kanaiya Kumar Rao, GBDA Chairman Simant Kumar Mali, Vice Chairman Sandeep Kumar Patra, Panchayat Samiti Co-Chairperson Swapan Kumar Pradhan, the Pradhan and Deputy Pradhan of Gangasagar Gram Panchayat, along with Nimai Maharaj of Bharat Sevashram Sangha. Priests from the revered Kapil Muni Ashram were also present, lending spiritual support to the campaign.
The primary objective of the initiative is to keep the mela area plastic-free and to preserve the religious sanctity and ecological balance of Gangasagar. Officials emphasized that environmental protection cannot be achieved through government efforts alone and requires active awareness and participation from the public.
The state government aims to present the Gangasagar Mela 2026 as a ‘Model Green Mela’ before the nation. With this goal in mind, authorities have already begun strengthening preparations, community involvement, and eco-friendly practices well in advance.
