India: A 69- year-old person of determination has been cleaning the Vembanadu lake in Kerala daily, for six years

Dubai: His legs don’t work, but 69-year-old N S Rajappan, from the Indian state of Kerala, has been on a mission for the last six years – to collect plastic waste from the Vembanad lake, which is the country's largest freshwater lake. What has surprised social media users is that he is paralysed below his knees, and uses his hands to move around. Many appreciated his efforts, and are sharing a video of him on Twitter.

Reportedly, Rajappan hires a small country boat in the state’s Kottayam district ever morning, and tries to collect plastic floating in the lake. He mainly collects plastic bottles that pollute the waterbody.

A twitter user@pavanamar554 posted: "No words. Rajappan sir, a big salute and respect to your concern towards the environment. I wish people realise the effects of plastic, and join hands to make plastic-free India. The first thing is to ban plastic."

Rajappan suffers from poliomyelitis, a disease caused by a virus that invades the nervous system, and causes total paralysis. Talking to a local news source, Rajappan said "I did whatever job I got. I couldn't do regular, daily wage work as my health did not permit me. So I had to find small jobs suitable for me.”

He eventually started cleaning the plastic waste around lake, while selling scrap to make money, to survive on day to day basis.

Reportedly, after the COVID-19 lockdown, plastic waste in the water has reduced. While this meant a decrease in income, Rajappan is happy that pollution has decreased. He said: “I am happy… that the waters are mostly clean now.”

Replying to the video, a twitter user Dr Bittoo @iambittoojain posted: "These are our real ambassadors of @swachhbharatabhiyan, and the entire country is proud of their achievements. We must learn from the selfless service of Rajappan Ji, who despite his physical inability, did not stop to work for the improvement of Vembanad lake! Best wishes."

Ginger Jones @ginger8011 tweeted: "It's great you shared his noble gesture and courage. Please also help him practically with medical consultation and aids to assist movement. Or please connect him to those who can help. That would be real service to such a superhero."

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