Special drive of AOD on World Environment Day

Our Correspondent

DIGBOI, June 6: The Indian Oil fraternity and the local populace of Digboi town came together to observe World Environment Day, 2018 with zeal. Employees showcased their concern for the cause based on the theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’ and pledged to protect the Earth’s biodiversity. Based on the theme, nearly 750 school children covering 32 schools in and around Digboi town came together at the Paragdhar Chaliha auditorium to translate their understanding of the theme through colours and artistic expressions. The All Assam State-level Quiz with prize money of Rs 48,000 attracted enthusiastic participation from the youth. A hoarding made with environment-friendly bamboo and minimized use of flex material was installed at an important public crossroad. This hoarding displayed the significant theme of World Environment Day, 2018. The activities for the day included tree plantation by the dignitaries at the Fire Training ground followed by release of fish fingerlings in the water body at Digboi Centenary Park. A cleanliness drive under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan too was undertaken at AOD New Market.

With the aim of involving larger section of the society to be a part of the noble cause of spreading environmental awareness, an environmental fair ‘Paribesh Mela’ and public function were held at Paragdhar Chaliha Auditorium. Students, volunteers, representatives of various non-governmental organizations participated in this fair and showcased their environment-friendly consumer goods, models of green living. The concluding function of the World Environment Day saw participation from employees, environmentalists, NGOs, volunteers, media representatives, school and college students and residents of Digboi town.

Noted environmentalist Dr Bibhuti Prasad Lahkar, who has dedicated his life and contributed immensely for the cause of protection of wildlife and environment in the region, was invited as chief guest in a programme where he was felicitated by Sukla Mistry, CGM (AOD). A special electronic publication of HSE department entitled Surya was also released on the occasion.