Journal Entry: A Day of Relaxation at Marina Beach - A Mix of Joy and Concern, Weekends Vibes

Date: 25/11/2023

On the 25th of November 2023, three friends from Bhutan and three from Myanmar embarked on a day of relaxation at the iconic Marina Beach. It promised to be a day of camaraderie, laughter, and the soothing embrace of the sea. Little did we know that our visit would be a mix of joy and concern, as the beauty of Marina Beach was juxtaposed with the stark reality of ocean pollution.

As we made our way to the beach, there was an air of excitement among us. The prospect of spending a day by the sea, sharing stories, and enjoying the simplicity of the waves crashing against the shore was a welcome break from the structured activities of the ITEC program. Marina Beach, stretching along the Bay of Bengal, is known for its vast expanse of golden sands and the serenity it offers in the midst of a bustling city.

Upon arriving at the beach, the sheer scale of Marina's beauty was breathtaking. The endless horizon of the Bay of Bengal, the rhythmic sound of waves, and the warm embrace of the sun created an atmosphere of tranquility. We set up a spot on the beach, laid out our mats, and began to soak in the natural beauty that surrounded us.

The laughter and camaraderie among us were infectious. The cultural exchange between the Bhutanese and Myanmar participants, against the backdrop of Marina's serene beauty, created a memorable experience. We shared stories of our respective homelands, discussed our favorite aspects of the ITEC program, and reveled in the joy of forming connections that transcended geographical boundaries.

However, as I gazed out at the vastness of the ocean, a sense of concern began to creep in. The once pristine beauty of the Bay of Bengal seemed marred by the visible signs of pollution. Plastic waste, discarded items, and debris littered the shore. It was disheartening to witness the extent to which human activities had impacted this natural wonder.

The contrast between the natural beauty of Marina Beach and the evidence of pollution served as a stark reminder of the environmental challenges we face globally. It underscored the importance of collective efforts to preserve and protect our oceans and natural habitats. As a participant in the ITEC program, which emphasizes sustainable practices and environmental consciousness, the sight of pollution at Marina Beach fueled a renewed commitment to advocate for responsible and eco-friendly living.

Despite the environmental concerns, our day at Marina Beach was not devoid of enjoyment. We engaged in beach games, relished local snacks, and took long walks along the shore. The sunset painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, creating a picturesque backdrop for our shared moments of relaxation.

As the day came to a close, we left Marina Beach with a mix of emotions. The joy of spending quality time with friends and the beauty of the natural surroundings were juxtaposed with the somber realization of the environmental challenges that persist. The experience served as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and the preservation of our planet's natural wonders.

In the days ahead, I carry with me the memories of our day at Marina Beach - the laughter, the cultural exchange, and the sobering awareness of the need for environmental stewardship. It reinforces the responsibility we all bear to contribute to a sustainable and healthier planet, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty of places like Marina Beach without the shadow of pollution.