In a heartwarming incident that highlights the ongoing battle against plastic pollution, IAS officer Supriya Sahu expressed her gratitude to Tunisia-based spearfisher Mechergui Ala for saving a sea turtle trapped in a plastic fishing net. The rescue, documented by Ala and shared on his Instagram, has garnered widespread attention and praise.
On August 16, Sahu shared Ala’s video on X, commenting on the dire consequences of plastic pollution. She wrote, “Death by plastic. Thank you @mecherguiala for saving this precious turtle. #stopplasticpollution.” The video captures Ala’s meticulous efforts to free the distressed turtle, which had become entangled in the net while swimming in the sea.
The video shows Ala carefully hauling the turtle onto his boat, where he used a knife to cut the plastic net that had wrapped around the turtle’s neck and legs. After successfully freeing the turtle from the entrapment, Ala gently released it back into the water.
Social media users were quick to applaud Ala’s act of kindness and bravery. The incident has sparked conversations about the harmful impact of plastic pollution on marine life, with many urging stronger efforts to combat the growing environmental crisis.
Death by plastic
— Supriya Sahu IAS (@supriyasahuias) August 16, 2024
Thank you @mecherguiala for saving this precious turtle #stopplasticpollution pic.twitter.com/j77kxSCbHz
