Environment Awareness Rally By BAPS

SURAT: In recognition of World Environment Day, BAPS Charities organized a children's Environmental Awareness cycle rally to highlight some of the environmental issues and concerns that countries and communities face across the world.

The rally was held in southern Gujarat in Surat. It saw over 2500 young participants reach out far and wide to draw attention to climate change, conservation, pollution, toxins and waste management. Braving the sweltering heat, the participants weaved their way through the streets of the city.

The rally also had cycles equipped with microphones and speakers which broadcasted messages about environmental protection and what steps everyone can take to help tackle the issues. The volunteers of the organization have launched many environmental projects, including "Plant a Tree", an initiative that planted over 1.5 million trees.

Other environmental projects include initiatives on paper and aluminum recycling, with over 91 tons of foil collected for the latter. Its water conversation projects have also benefited various communities through the installation of trickle/drip irrigation systems. Most recently during "Earth Day", BAPS Charities participated in the Annual Earth Day festivities in Chino Hills, CA.

Over 30 volunteers planted and watered a total of 134 trees. Beyond its environmental projects, BAPS Charities community centers are constructed using environment friendly materials. The buildings utilize power saving LED lighting and employ management practices to ensure energy consumption is kept optimal and efficient.

On World Environment Day, BAPS Charities pledged to continue to highlight and bring awareness about environmental issues through community based projects, education and healthy construction practices.

Dar es Salaam's Kisutu Street is now Pramukh Swami Street

Famous Kisutu Street in the Dar es Salaam city centre, now apparently going by the name of ’PRAMUKH SWAMI’, Yakoub (The Deputy Mayor of llala Municipality) said his office received requests and suggestions for the new name from the Kisutu Ward development committee early last year, and in December the municipal council permitted the change of name. 

He conceded that many people are wondering how come the old ’Kiswahili’ name of Kisutu had been changed to the predominantly Indian name of ’PRAMUKH SWAMI’, but reiterated that all procedures were followed before the municipal council gave its approval. 

’’Since most of the people dwelling in ’PRAMUKH SWAMI’ (formerly Kisutu Street) are of Indian origin but still Tanzanian citizens, they have every right to bring their request for such a street name change, and if the request is sensible then the municipal council may grant it,’’ said Yakoub.