Fort Kochi: Ralph, aged 65, a physical trainer from Germany, has been busy cleaning up the beach at Fort Kochi in Kerala, for the past many days.
Reaching the beach at 6 in the morning, Ralph sweeps up the dry algae, plastics and other waste on the beach and segregates them into plastic garbage bags he has bought. A few locals who were on the beach videographed his efforts to clean the beach and posted it on social media. This took the internet by storm.
Though many go close to him and laud him for his efforts, Ralph continues the work after expressing his happiness with a smile. “The cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Fort Kochi are enchanting. I wish the beach here is maintained clean always. I clean it up every time I am here,” said Ralph.
He had visited Kochi in 2019 and 2020. This time, he reached Kerala 6 weeks ago and came to Fort Kochi 3 weeks ago. He is to leave for Kovalam on February 27. Ralph is a physical trainer and lifeguard in Germany.
The state of the beach which is visited by hundreds of tourists every day is pathetic. Though the DTPC and Cochin Heritage Conservation Society have appointed cleaning staff here, it does not seem to be effective in maintaining the beach clean.
The Corporation Health department cleared the garbage bags filled and accumulated by Ralph over the past many days.