‘Green Madurai’ marathon draws over 1,400 participants

Madurai: A "Green Madurai" awareness marathon was organised by college authorities on Sunday morning to highlight the need for a cleaner and environmentally sustainable city.The event saw the participation of 1,410 runners across five categories: a 10km open run; an adult category for those aged 18 to 60; a teenage category for 12 to 18 years; a 3km run for women and senior citizens; and a 2km "mum and toddler" run. The marathon began at 6.30am and concluded around 9am with prize distribution. The 10km run started at the TC Ground and covered TSM College, Muthupatti junction and Avaniyapuram police station before returning to the starting point. The 3km and 2km categories followed shorter designated routes. Posters and banners were placed along the routes to promote the "Green Madurai" message. A Murugesan, one of the organisers, said the initiative was prompted by growing environmental concerns in the city. "The waste pile-ups, the dust, and sewage all pose serious problems to the residents and the city. The run was organised as a way to draw attention to the issue," he said, adding that more such events may be conducted depending on public response.