Udaipur’s Sajjangarh tourist spots declared plastic bottle free zones

Udaipur: On the occasion of World Environment Day, Udaipur’s prominent tourist destinations Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Monsoon Palace and Sajjangarh Biological Park were declared plastic bottle-free zones under an initiative launched by the Forest Department (Wildlife) in collaboration with the Neer Amrit organisation.

The move aimed to promote environmental conservation and clean tourism is expected to serve as a model for the state and other tourist destinations in the country. Sajjangarh is among the most popular tourist destinations in Udaipur, with a large number of domestic and foreign tourists arriving every day. Plastic bottles discarded by tourists after use pose an ongoing challenge for wildlife, environment and the area’s natural beauty, prompting the forest department to take the step.

Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Sedu Ram Yadav said a complete ban was being imposed on plastic water bottles to keep the Biological Park Sajjangarh and Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary plastic-free. He said a fine of Rs 1,000 will be imposed if the use of plastic water bottles is found in the sanctuary area.

He said tourists will be provided 500ml water in glass bottles for Rs 50 near the Sajjangarh ticket window, and Rs 40 will be refunded on returning the empty bottle. He said the arrangement began on an experimental basis on World Environment Day. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce the consumption of single-use plastic and promote cleanliness and environmental conservation at tourist destinations.