A video showcasing an elderly man rowing a traditional wooden boat in the scenic Alleppey backwaters of Kerala has sparked conversations about civic responsibility and the significance of environmental awareness. In the footage shared on Instagram by a Karnataka-based plant retailer, the man is seen diligently traversing the tranquil waters, collecting various plastic items and debris discarded by visitors. As the sunlight glimmers off the water’s surface, his small canoe fills up with the items he gathers, primarily plastic bottles.

 

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A post shared by Riddhi plants (@riddhiplants)

The video begins with the caption, “Civic sense is the new trend?” before showing the man moving from one area of the water to another, reaching for the floating waste. Alongside the video, the short summary describes the awe-inspiring views of the Alleppey backwaters while also expressing disappointment over the litter left behind by tourists. The Instagram post reflects on the encounter with the elderly individual, noting how he was seen “patiently collecting plastic bottles left behind by visitors,” a vision that resonated deeply with observers.

Within the accompanying message, the page highlights the contrast between the serene beauty of the location and the abundance of plastic waste that tarnishes it. The message emphasizes the responsibility each visitor has in preserving such natural environments. Directly quoting from the post, it states, “Travel is not just about taking memories; it’s also about showing respect to the places that host us.” Furthermore, it stresses, “If we can carry plastic with us on the way in, we can certainly carry it back on the way out.” The call for responsible tourism is presented as a hallmark of good civic sense, urging individuals to both enjoy and protect nature.

Online Reactions

The video of the elderly man’s effort has garnered significant appreciation online, with many viewers expressing their support for his initiative. Various users have commented on the importance of individual accountability in maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces. One comment noted, “We all should participate in all ways possible to keep our country clean,” while another user remarked, “This is a powerful reminder that caring for nature is everyone’s responsibility.” These comments reflect a growing sentiment about personal involvement in environmental preservation.

The Alleppey backwaters, renowned for their picturesque landscapes and houseboat experiences, attract numerous tourists each year. However, the escalating problem of plastic waste in such destinations has become a pressing concern. This incident involving the elderly man’s actions serves as a reminder of the collective duty that individuals share in safeguarding natural resources and ensuring that these beautiful locales remain unblemished for future generations.

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