The notice forbidding the use of plastic bags in Patna zoo and (below) their eco-friendly alternatives. Pictures by Nagendra Kumar Singh

This World Environment Day, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park has come up with an eco-friendly gift — ban on the use of polythene bags on its premises.

From Tuesday (the World Environment Day) onwards, there would be no polythene packets on the Patna zoo premises, legally. Those who choose to do otherwise will have to cough up Rs 250 as fine.

The decision means that apart from the visitors, businessmen in the zoo will have to do away with plastic packets. Those selling chips, which are available only in plastic packets, would now have to serve them in paper packets.

But don’t fret if you reach the zoo with a polythene bag. The zoo authorities have come up with an alternative. You can purchase an eco-friendly bag by shelling out just Rs 2.

The authorities are excited to implement the new rule. “The administration is very excited with the new norm. A number of environment awareness campaigns are initiated verbally. But this is an example of practically implementing a system,” Patna zoo director Abhay Kumar told The Telegraph.

He said posters had been put up across the zoo premises about the drive more than a week ago.

“Those carrying plastic packets would be allowed to enter the zoo only after they submit them at the entrance. Even those selling chips inside the zoo will have to serve them in a paper bag and dispose the packets at the dustbin,” Kumar said, adding that those who decide to do otherwise would have to pay a fine of Rs 250.

He said the new bags would carry a logo of the rhino and would look very attractive. “The children would love it.”

The zoo director pointed out that eco-friendly carry bags are also used at Hyderabad zoo.

Not only will these bags be attractive and environment friendly, they would also benefit the animals.

“Visitors often throw polythene packets inside the cages of the animals, which are later consumed. It is very harmful for the animals,” Patna zoo deputy director Praveen Kumar said.

The move would not only benefit wildlife and the zoo environment, but also add to the revenue of the biological park through sale of eco-friendly bags.

Kumar added: “We have ordered for adequate number of eco-friendly carry bags. The revenue would depend on the number of people visiting the zoo every day.”