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Sikkim enforces a new rule requiring all tourist vehicles to carry garbage bags, aiming for environmental sustainability and community participation. Non-compliance will result in penalties.
In a bid to promote environmental sustainability, the Tourism Department of Sikkim has issued a new order mandating that all tourist vehicles entering the state carry large garbage bags. This initiative aims to ensure community participation in maintaining the pristine beauty of Sikkim’s environment.
According to the official order, it will be the responsibility of tour operators, travel agencies, and vehicle drivers to inform tourists about the use of garbage bags for proper waste disposal. The directive emphasizes that tourists must use these bags to manage their waste responsibly while traveling through Sikkim.
The decision underscores Sikkim’s commitment to environmental conservation. “Community participation is crucial in achieving the goal of environmental sustainability,” stated the order from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department.
To enforce this new regulation, random checks of tourist vehicles will be conducted. Vehicles found in violation of the order will face penalties. This measure is part of a broader effort to enhance awareness about cleanliness and waste management among tourists.
Officials have also initiated awareness campaigns to educate visitors on the importance of environmental sustainability and proper waste disposal practices. These campaigns aim to instill a sense of responsibility among tourists, ensuring that they contribute to preserving the natural beauty of Sikkim.
Sikkim, known for its picturesque Himalayan destinations, attracts more than 20 lakh visitors annually, despite being the least populated state in India with over 6 lakh residents. The influx of tourists has necessitated measures to manage waste and protect the environment.
By enforcing the use of garbage bags in tourist vehicles, Sikkim hopes to set a standard for sustainable tourism and encourage other regions to adopt similar practices. This initiative not only aims to keep the state clean but also to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation among travelers.