Odisha bans single-use plastic in national parks

`The Odisha government on Monday imposed a ban on the use of single-use plastic in national parks, tiger reserves, wildlife sanctuaries and eco-tourism sites in the state from April 1. Chief Wildlife Warden Susanta Nanda said in an order, “In exercise of the power conferred under Section 33 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, it is hereby ordered that single-use plastic shall be prohibited inside sanctuaries/national parks/tiger reserves of the state with effect from April 1, 2024.” As the use of plastic water bottles will also be banned inside the protected forest areas, alternate drinking water facilities will be arranged for the tourists, Nanda, who is also the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), said.
Visitors carrying food items in wraps will be advised to dispose of the wraps at designated garbage bins and not litter the protected areas, the order stated.