25, Nov 2019 | Staff Reporter

On the second day of its convention, the National Alliance of People’s Movements (NAPM) made a human chain along the sea beach here on Sunday, spreading messages to save natural resources from destruction by human intervention.  As many as 500 activists joined the chain.

Banners and posters held by the activists imprinted dialogues such as ‘Save Sea, save society ’and ‘save mother earth’. Hundreds of tourists and visitors also joined the human chain, which was aimed at spreading awareness in the society for protection of river, sea, forest, natural resources and earth from ill effects of development.

Speaking on the occasion, noted environmental activist Prafulla Samantara said the aim is to create a people’s movement against devastation of natural resources such as water, forests and sea and to protect people’s livelihood and the earth as well.

“It is time to save river, forests and natural resources which are being destroyed in the name of developments and progresses in the society. Earth will be saved if sea is protected. Sea will be saved if river is protected from pollution. We appeal to people of Odisha and country not to destroy river, sea and jungle for safety of the mankind,” said Samantara.

The human chain was organised on the second day of NAPM convention held here. More than 40 prominent left-wing leaders from the country spanning 17 States are attending convention, which would conclude on Monday. Many environment friendly resolutions are expected to be passed at the convention. Among others, eminent environmental activists Medha Patekar, Bezwada Wilson, Teesta Setalvad and Manoj Mohanty participated in the human chain. Swadhina Panda of Puri coordinator the rally.

The original article may be read here.