Fort Kochi, November 24, 2024 – The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), in collaboration with VST Industries and Cochin Collective, organised the Kort Kochi Heritage Run, bringing together runners and conservation enthusiasts to celebrate three core virtues: Rediscover the Environment, Protect Untouched Heritage, and Say No to Drugs. This initiative is also part of WTI’s “Save the Whale Shark Campaign” to spread awareness of the threats faced by the world’s biggest fish.

The event featured 10 km and 5 km run categories, commencing with an energising Zumba session. Participants were timed using RFID chips and cameras, and awards were given in four categories (male and female) based on the least time taken.

The 10 km run was inaugurated by Commander Sumeet Kumar Sinha, INS Dronacharya, and Mr. V.G. Ravindranath, Chief Security Officer, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), while Mr. Ravi Kumar, DIG, Indian Coast Guard inaugurated the 5 km run.

Over 1200 participants showed their support for the world’s largest fish | Photo by Team WTI

The valedictory session, hosted at Vasco Square, Fort Kochi, was presided over by dignitaries including K.J. Maxi, MLA, Commander Sumeet Kumar Sinha, Mr. N. Ravi, DIG, Indian Coast Guard, Mr. V.G. Ravindranath, Sheeba Lal, Standing Committee Chairman, Mr. Shamsudheen, Councillor, and Mr. Vikas Agrawal, Indian Chamber of Commerce.

Chief Guest K.J. Maxi inaugurated the event, praising the collaboration between WTI and the Kochi Collective. He emphasised that the marathon was a symbol of unity, raising awareness about Fort Kochi’s rich heritage, marine conservation (especially the protection of whale sharks), and the fight against drug abuse.

Commander Sumeet Kumar Sinha acknowledged the thoughtful focus of the initiative, commending its effort to intertwine conservation, heritage preservation, and anti-drug campaigns. Mr. N. Ravi spoke about the ecological importance of whale shark conservation and the Coast Guard’s role in preserving marine ecosystems. He highlighted the power of community-driven events like this in fostering environmental responsibility.

L-R Saymanti B, WTI, Sheeba Lal, Chairperson, standing committee KJ Maxi MLA Mr VG Ravindran, CIAL Mr N Ravi DIG Sumeet kumar Sinha, Commander INS Dronacharya Sajan John | Photo by Team WTI

Mr. V.G. Ravindranath, Security Officer, CIAL addressed the significance of uniting people around the themes of marine conservation and anti-drug awareness, calling for more such initiatives. Sheeba Lal, Standing Committee Chairman encouraged youth participation in conservation and cultural heritage efforts, stressing their critical role in driving positive change.

Mr. Shamsudheen, Councillor emphasised the importance of community engagement in preserving Kochi’s traditions and protecting marine life. Mr. Vikas Agrawal, Indian Chamber of Commerce highlighted the Chamber’s support for whale shark conservation and urged stronger efforts to combat drug use among young people.

The 10 km and 5 km category events saw participation from all age groups under

Saymanti Bandhopadhyay, OIC National Heritage Campaigns, WTI said, “Kerala, with its unique congregation of whale sharks along Minicoy Island, holds a critical role in conserving the world’s largest fish. Threats such as accidental boat hits and entanglements demand urgent attention. Kerala’s fishers have demonstrated unparalleled commitment, cutting nets to release whale sharks safely 26 times in the past seven years. Their efforts inspire us to deepen our partnerships and continue this vital work.”

“Through this run, Cochin Carnival aims to spread awareness about the pressing issues surrounding whale shark conservation. As a coastal state, it is our honour and responsibility to protect this gentle giant of the ocean,” states Stephen Roberts, Patron, Cochin Collectives.

The run concluded with a prize distribution ceremony

Since 2018, WTI has been actively engaged in its ‘Save the Whale Shark’ campaign along the coastlines of Kerala and Lakshadweep. Listed as ‘endangered’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Whale shark is threatened by accidental entanglement in fishing nets, ocean pollution, and is often hunted for meat, fins, oil etc.

Read more about our ‘Save the Whale shark’ campaign.