Mumbai Woman, 18, Swims 36 kms In 7 hours To Call Out Pollution

In a remarkable feat, an 18-year-old girl swam 36 km in 7 hours and 4 minutes to raise awareness against ocean pollution in Mumbai. She is a medical student who swam from Bandra Worli Sealink to Gateway of India. Her effort has ignited awareness against the rising pollution level. Read on to learn more about her and her feat. 

It was not easy for 18-year-old Hazel to achieve this feat at night. Because of the increased pollution level in the ocean, she had to be very careful while swimming. Throughout her spree, she was followed by pilot boats which included her parents, coach, observers and time-keepers. 

Protect the environment for future generations: Hazel

Talking about her initiative, Hazel said, "Be it the sea of the country or the sea of Mumbai, lakhs of tonnes of garbage is thrown there every year, due to which everyone faces difficulties. It also causes a lot of damage to the environment.”

She further added that through her initiative she wants people to be encouraged to protect the sea from pollution and stop throwing garbage in it.

"Let us unite for a cause that extends beyond individual actions, safeguarding the seas not just for ourselves but for future generations,” Hazel added. 

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Parent's support in achieving the feat

She also talked about how her parents have always supported her interests. She said, "Fortunately, my parents were always very encouraging about my interest, and they have always supported me. Right from accompanying me for my training to accompanying me for various competitions, they have always encouraged me."

This is not the first time that Hazel has done an extraordinary job through her interest in swimming. Earlier in 2021, she swam 14 km in 2 hours and 45 minutes. At that time, she swam from Elephanta Caves to the Gateway of India. 

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A post shared by Swim for Sea by Hazel (@swimforseabyhazel)

Hazel's efforts have shown some results as it has inspired some swift action against ocean pollution in Mumbai. As per reports, local MLA Mihir Kotecha has issued an order to mandate dustbins on every ferry boat to prevent passengers from littering the sea.