Brahmagiri: In a bid to keep Chilika, the largest brackish lake in Asia, free from plastic wastes, the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) Friday imposed restrictions on use of plastic materials and polythene inside the lake.
A decision to this effect was taken at a joint meeting by the CDA and Chilika Motor Boat Association on the occasion of World Wetlands Day. The development authority and the boat association have also decided to spread massive awareness among tourists about the restrictions.
According to sources, plastic materials and polythene bags carried by tourists pollute the water body of Chilika and affect the ecology. Besides, the wastes pose threats to the lives of Irrawaddy dolphins which are regarded as major tourist attractions.
Henceforth, plastic materials and polythene bags will be seized from tourists visiting the lagoon. A list of the seized items will be prepared and security money will be collected from tourists. The tourists will get back their money and plastic items once they return from the visit, sources said.
PNN
