Bodh Gaya: The Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodh Gaya has introduced a complete ban on plastic, marking a significant step towards environmental conservation and preserving the sanctity of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
From Thursday, the use of plastic packets, bottles, and containers within the temple premises is strictly prohibited. The measure aims to reduce waste generated by devotees and tourists, who traditionally carried puja items, water, and offerings in plastic, often leaving them behind after rituals.
“Despite repeated cleaning efforts, plastic waste continued to accumulate, affecting the dignity of the temple,” said Dr Mahasweta Maharathi, secretary of the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC). She urged visitors to bring offerings in cloth or paper bags and emphasised the shared responsibility of maintaining both the temple’s sanctity and the environment.
Information boards outlining the ban in four languages have been installed at all entry points to alert domestic and international visitors in advance. Temple staff and security personnel are enforcing the rule at the gates, ensuring that anyone carrying plastic is stopped and asked to leave it outside.
The BTMC hopes the strict enforcement will gradually foster awareness among devotees and tourists, transforming the Mahabodhi Temple complex into a fully plastic-free site.
