Mangaluru: Dedication of the renovated Arise Awake Park marked the successful completion of 20 weeks of cleanliness drive in the fourth phase of Swachh Mangaluru Abhiyan of Ramakrishna Mission.

MLA J R Lobo inaugurated the park in the presence of Swami Jitakamananda, head of Ramakrishna Mission, MLC Ganesh Karnik, corporator Prakash Salian, and others.

Lobo said, “This park is proof of the fact that a clean mind is the first step towards a clean environment. Ramakrishna Mission Swachhata Abhiyan has been successfully instilling the idea of cleanliness in the minds of people with its cleanliness efforts,” he said while lauding the efforts of volunteers who were part of the event.

Swami Jitakamananda said, “If we can transform garbage dumping yards and neglected spots into parks like this, it will result in cleaner and beautiful city. We have a responsibility of keeping our city clean and garbage free.”

Mayor Bhaskar Moily lauded the efforts of Ramakrishna Mission in creating awareness on cleanliness among the masses and promised cooperation and support for the Swachh Mangaluru drive from Mangaluru City Corporation in the days to come.

MLC Ganesh Karnik said concerted efforts of Ramakrishna Mission has helped transform many parts of the city.

In the shramadan that the mayor flagged off later, Rajanish K, former deputy mayor and dignitaries cleaned the roadsides.

Vittaldas Prabhu, Mukesh Alva, Souraj and Mohammad Shameem guided volunteers in cleaning the four roads.

Volunteers cleaned the road leading from the park towards Subramanya Sadan as well as the adjoining compound walls.

Students cleaned the Jail road as well. Construction debris lying near the animal husbandry office was also cleared.

Japanese nationals Masahiro and Masako Akoyi actively participated in the Abhiyan. More than 400 volunteers participated in the drive.