Abid Surti, an eminent environmentalist, is a luminary in storytelling, novel writing, painting, cartooning, and satire. Hailing from Gujarat and later making Mumbai his home, his journey reflects a deep-seated passion for artistic expression and environmental advocacy.
Witnessing Water Woes in Mumbai’s Labyrinth
As a child, Surti witnessed the intense struggles over water points in Mumbai, where women engaged in daily skirmishes for their water needs. The plight of homeless individuals on footpaths, fighting for each precious drop, left an indelible mark on his conscience. Despite Mumbai’s coastal location, the city grappled with a severe water shortage, which saddened Surti even more as he observed the careless waste of this invaluable resource.
A Dripping Revelation: Sparking the Campaign
In 2007, a seemingly inconspicuous incident at a friend’s house catalyzed Surti’s water conservation mission. The persistent sound of a leaking tap, dismissed by his friend as trivial, triggered Surti’s realization that a single drop per second equated to around 1,000 liters wasted monthly. This revelation fueled his determination to initiate a campaign aimed at saving water.
‘Drop Dead Foundation’: A Noble Initiative
Using the prize money of Rs one lakh awarded by the Hindi Sahitya Sansthan of Uttar Pradesh, Surti founded the ‘Drop Dead Foundation.’ The organization’s mantra, “Save every drop or drop dead,” encapsulates its mission. Surti, now 88, personally engages in door-to-door activities every Sunday, accompanied by a plumber, fixing leaking taps for free in Mumbai’s Mira Road area.
Recognition and Influence: A Ripple Effect
Surti’s commendable efforts gained global recognition, with the United Nations and individuals like Erik Solheim acknowledging his environmental initiatives. Bollywood icons Shekhar Kapur and Shahrukh Khan lauded his work, and a news channel honored him with the ‘Be the Change’ award. Even Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, deeply impressed, invited Surti to implement his water conservation model in the capital.
Abid Surti emerges as a beacon of change in a world challenged by water scarcity, tirelessly advocating for preserving every precious drop.
For a detailed story, please visit: Awaz the voice
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