A Cleaning Drive at Chotelal Ghat, Kolkata
Date of Visit: 29th November, 2025
Introduction
As part of an environmental awareness initiative, seven students guided by their two Professors, from the department of Geography, Loreto college, visited Chotelal Ghat in Kolkata to observe the condition of the riverfront and conduct a cleaning drive. The programme aimed to promote cleanliness, encourage social responsibility, and highlight the importance of maintaining the ghats along the Hooghly River.
Purpose of the Visit
The main objectives of the visit were:
1. To assess the cleanliness and general condition of Chotelal Ghat.
2. To carry out a cleaning drive and remove waste from the ghat area.
3. To spread awareness among local visitors about keeping the riverfront clean.
The Chotelal Ghat is a modest but active ghat situated along the Hooghly River. It is frequented by local residents for bathing, performing rituals, and spending time by the riverside. Small shops, vendors of puja items, and a nearby temple reflect the cultural importance of the location. However, scattered plastic cups, flower waste, food wrappers, and discarded items indicated a need for proper waste management.
Activities During the Cleaning Drive
Upon reaching the ghat, we divided ourselves into groups and began the cleaning drive. Equipped with gloves, masks, garbage bags, and brooms, we started collecting plastic waste, flower remains, broken clay items, and other debris from the steps and surrounding areas.
We also interacted with our resource personnels and worked along with the volunteers from the Organization "Paathaya" of the Taj, about the harmful effects of littering and the importance of keeping the ghat clean. We also received food packets from them as an appreciation of our efforts.
During the drive, we segregated the waste into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories to ensure proper disposal. Within a few hours, the entire ghat looked visibly cleaner, and even passers-by appreciated our efforts.
Observations
The ghat is an important cultural and religious spot but suffers from occasional littering.
Most of the waste consisted of plastic, food packets, and puja materials.
Many visitors were unaware of proper waste disposal methods.
Regular cleaning and installation of dustbins could significantly improve the ghat's condition.
Outcome of the Drive
The cleaning drive helped restore cleanliness to the ghat, at least temporarily. More importantly, it created awareness among locals and strengthened our sense of environmental responsibility. The collective effort showed how small steps can make a noticeable difference.
Conclusion
The visit to Chotelal Ghat and our cleaning drive proved to be an educational and inspiring experience. It enabled us to contribute positively to the community while learning about civic duty, teamwork, and environmental conservation. Such initiatives should be undertaken regularly to preserve the beauty and cultural significance of Kolkata's riverfront areas.
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