Hyderabad (Telangana) [India] September 24: In a powerful display of civic engagement, Narayana High School, Serilingampally, participated in the Ozone Run 2024, where students and staff united to sign a petition aimed at enhancing road hygiene and cleanliness throughout Hyderabad. This initiative reflects the school’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the well-being of the community.
Held at the Gachibowli Stadium, the Ozone Run attracted over 1,000 participants, including families, educators, and local leaders, all coming together to promote a healthier environment. Representing the voices of 1,340 students, Narayana High School collaborated with schools across the city to identify urgent sanitation issues plaguing their neighborhoods. The petition specifically addresses critical concerns such as waste dumping, inadequate trash clearance, and the dangers posed by stray dogs near waste sites—issues that directly affect the health and safety of local residents.
Principal Gunavati Patnaik emphasized the importance of student involvement in community issues, stating, “Our students are dedicated to making a difference in Hyderabad. Tackling these hygiene challenges is essential for ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all, especially for future generations.” The petition serves as a call to action for the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to address these pressing concerns with the urgency they deserve.
The Ozone Run 2024 was not just an athletic event; it was a celebration of community spirit and collective responsibility. Distinguished guests, including Shri Jagadeeswar Goud, MLA Contestant from Serilingampally, and Mr. Gareth Wynn Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner, lent their support, underscoring the significance of community collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. The event was expertly organized by the founders of the Ozone Run, Ms. Bilvoa Vunnam and Ms. Teerdha Vunnam, Meghana Musunuri, Sridhar Vunnam who highlighted the power of collective action in creating sustainable change.
Local sponsors also played a crucial role in the success of the event, ensuring participants received high-quality event materials and hydration stations, which enriched the overall experience. Interactive booths and educational activities provided attendees with opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions about environmental practices and the importance of hygiene.
Narayana High School’s petition underscores the necessity for ongoing collaboration with the GHMC to effectively address these sanitation issues. The school has enclosed a detailed presentation outlining specific concerns and potential solutions, showcasing their commitment to finding constructive ways to contribute to a cleaner Hyderabad. Principal Patnaik expressed hope for a positive dialogue with local authorities, stating, “We are eager to work hand-in-hand with the GHMC to foster a cleaner, more hygienic environment for all residents.”
The Ozone Run 2024 serves as a poignant reminder of our shared responsibility to safeguard our environment. Initiatives like this inspire students and community members to advocate for meaningful change, proving that together, we can pave the way for a healthier, cleaner future.