Did you know that globally, 1,000 rivers &ndash one percent of all rivers &ndash have accumulated nearly 80 percent of plastic pollution The Ocean Cleanup, a non-profit developing advanced technologies to rid the world&rsquos oceans of plastic, published the results of its updated global river pollution model in the peer-reviewed journal Science Advances, shedding new light on where and how much plastic flows into the oceans via rivers.
With plastic pollution a major threat to Indian rivers too, the seventh edition of the Chaliyar River Paddle, an eco-friendly water sports event, has decided to focus on the message &lsquogo plastic negative&rsquo. The three-day paddle event in November is being organised by Jellyfish Watersports in association with Kerala Tourism.
The 68 km paddle will start from Nilambur, located on the foothills of Western Ghat in Malappuram, and conclude at Beypore in Kozhikode district, where the Chaliyar River meets with the Arabian Sea.
Said Kaushiq Kodithodika, founder, Jellyfish Water Sports, &ldquoChaliyar River Paddle has been focused on saving our rivers from urban pollution and promoting recreational kayaking for everyone. It is a plastic negative event, hence the paddlers will help clean the river while kayaking.&rdquo
The organisers have partnered with a local NGO, who will provide the participants with collection bags and carry the waste to their recycling and waste management facility. They will also educate participants on proper segregation, responsible consumption, and waste management.
The Chaliyar River Paddle offers opportunities at various levels from beginners to non-swimmers to veteran water sports enthusiasts, as well as people from all walks of life. The event promotes Kerala&rsquos rivers, their beauty, authentic Malabar cuisine, and offers a unique opportunity to meet like-minded individuals.
Local music bands will regale participants and visitors in the evening while food will be catered by the best local restaurants such as Calicut Paragon, according to the organisers.
The organisers have also assured that all COVID-19 safety protocols will be strictly adhered to. A vaccination certificate is a prerequisite to participate in the event.
The Chaliyar River Paddle will be held from November 12 to 14 this year.
According to the organisers, this year, given the situation, this event will be promoted as a phoenix event to boost tourism activities in Kerala. The event will offer an expedition, camping, and a source to the sea paddling experience, using kayaks, SUPs, and rafts.
This year, on the third day, the organisers have decided to introduce sculling (rowers) and dinghy sailboats, thus widening the scope of using non-motorised, human-powered watercraft.
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