GOALPARA, Sept 20 - In response to the call given by the All India Peoples� Network (AIPSN) for �Climate Strike�, the Assam Science Society (ASS), Goalpara branch along with Ellora Vigyan Manch and Goalpara College jointly organised a symbolic procession today which was participated by a large number of students, employees, teachers and members of the public. The procession was flagged off by the Principal of Goalpara College, Dr Subhash Barman.
In a brief speech, Dr Barman said that �Climate Strike� is an event of international significance, where in the largest mobilisation yet attempted by youths, a climate movement was launched by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg last year. He also said that people are gradually becoming aware of their surroundings and environment and as this has implications on climate change, the pressure on government and institutions is rising as it is affecting peoples� lives.
While congratulating the gathering, convener of Ellora Vigyan Manch, Goalpara branch, Prof Pradip Kumar Seal said that the simplicity with which the message on the effects of climate change was raised, has made the movement unignorable. Prof Seal said, �we are running out of time to avert the worst effects of global warming, where the continuing rising temperatures will lead to food scarcity and water shortage for millions of people, specially in the poorer countries. There will be heat-related deaths, forest fires and mass displacement due to floods.� He underscored the need to stop the ruthless exploitation of nature by the rich countries for expansion of market and maximisation of profit.
Addressing the gathering, the secretary of ASS, Goalpara branch, Dr Dulal Chandra Baruah explained the aims and objectives of the �Climate Strike� programme and emphasised the need for action by all to check the climate change in our planet.
Meanwhile, a brief introductory speech was given by the president of ASS, Dr Ranjit Choudhury where he spoke on the global climate strike where millions of students across the world and at several places throughout the length and breadth of India, are holding protests against inaction towards global climate change.
Colourful banners and posters dotted the procession, which started from the Goalpara College campus, snaked through the main roads, before returning to the college campus. The Government BT College also organised a separate programme in support of the �Climate Strike� in front of the college gate.
