On World Environment Day, Udaipur's popular tourist destinations—Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Monsoon Palace, and Sajjangarh Biological Park—were declared plastic bottle-free zones. This initiative was launched by the Forest Department (Wildlife) in collaboration with the Neer Amrit organisation.
Promoting Environmental Conservation and Clean Tourism
The move aims to promote environmental conservation and clean tourism, setting a model for other tourist destinations across the state and country. Sajjangarh attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists daily. Discarded plastic bottles have posed a persistent challenge to wildlife, the environment, and the area's natural beauty, prompting the forest department to take decisive action.
Ban on Plastic Water Bottles
Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Sedu Ram Yadav announced a complete ban on plastic water bottles in the Biological Park and Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary. A fine of Rs 1,000 will be imposed on anyone found using plastic water bottles in the sanctuary area.
Glass Bottle Deposit System
Tourists will be provided 500ml water in glass bottles for Rs 50 at the Sajjangarh ticket counter. On returning the empty bottle, Rs 40 will be refunded. The arrangement began on an experimental basis on World Environment Day. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce single-use plastic consumption, promote cleanliness, and support environmental conservation at tourist destinations.
