Church of God Volunteers Lead Environmental Cleanup at Ramtekdi Forest and Bairobanala Road in Pune
Pune, 29th December 2025: Volunteers from the World Mission Society Church of God carried out large-scale environmental clean-up drives in Pune on Saturday as part of the organisation’s “Forest of Hope” and “Worldwide Cleanup” campaigns, focusing on soil conservation, forest protection, and waste management.
The “Forest of Hope” campaign was organised at Ramtekdi Forest, a popular green zone frequented by hikers and local residents. The initiative forms part of a global climate action programme marking World Soil Day and International Mountain Day, aimed at preventing forest fires and preserving biodiversity by removing combustible waste and litter.
Around 100 volunteers, including church members, families, and local residents, gathered at the forest entrance at 10 am. After receiving safety instructions from officials of the Pune Forest Department, the volunteers worked in small groups to clean a 1.5-kilometre stretch of the forest area. Officials said nearly six tonnes of garbage, including plastic waste and bottles, were collected over approximately two hours.
The Pune Forest Department appreciated the effort, while the Pune Municipal Corporation’s Wanwadi–Ramtekdi Ward Office provided garbage vans and bins to support the operation. Karan Latawde, DSI at the ward office, who was present at the site, commended the volunteers for their contribution. Local residents also welcomed the initiative, with several expressing interest in participating in future clean-up drives.
On the same day, university student volunteers from ASEZ, the Church of God’s student-led environmental group, conducted a separate “Worldwide Cleanup Campaign” along Bairobanala Road in Pune. About 84 volunteers cleaned a one-kilometre stretch, collecting approximately four tonnes of waste within two hours. The area saw a visible improvement following the drive.
The Pune Cantonment Board supported the campaign by providing cleaning equipment. Sachin Mathurawala, a nominated member of the board, encouraged the volunteers and praised their efforts. Participants said the activity helped raise awareness about environmental responsibility among youth.
ASEZ, which stands for “Save the Earth from A to Z,” has been involved in environmental initiatives across India, including campaigns aimed at reducing plastic pollution, protecting marine ecosystems, and conserving green cover through tree plantation drives.
The Church of God, founded in 1964 in South Korea, regularly undertakes social initiatives such as environmental clean-ups, blood donation drives, disaster relief work, and community support programmes. The organisation said it continues to conduct such activities in line with its emphasis on community service and environmental protection.
