Chief Secretary reviews expansion
plan for Jambu Zoo
Zoo to offer major attractions like
Zebra, bird aviary & AR/VR facility in future
NEW DELHI, FEBRUARY
20: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo conducted a comprehensive review meeting to
assess the expansion plan for Jambu Zoo. The meeting focused on the revised
layout plan, which includes the construction of new animal enclosures, a
walk-through aviary, infrastructure developments, and additional visitor
facilities to enhance the zoo’s appeal.
During the meeting,
the Chief Secretary reviewed the current footfall at the zoo and engaged in
detailed deliberations on strategies to increase visitor numbers. He emphasized
the need to position Jambu Zoo as a prime destination, particularly during the
summer months, to attract a larger audience.
Chief Wildlife
Warden Sarvesh Rai provided a detailed presentation outlining the existing
facilities designed for visitor convenience and the ambitious expansion plans
for the coming years.
At present, the zoo
features 17 enclosures housing a diverse range of wild animals, including
tigers, lions, leopards, Himalayan black bears, blackbucks, snake chambers, and
crocodiles.
The Chief Secretary
was informed that 13 new animal enclosures are under construction during
2024-25, with plans to introduce prominent species such as the hippopotamus,
ostrich, Indian gaur, hyena, wolf, and fishing cat.
Additionally, a
walk-through aviary is in progress, which will house an array of beautiful
native and exotic bird species. Future expansion will also see the addition of
a botanical garden and a butterfly/multi-sensory garden.
About the
infrastructure augmentation in the zoo it was added that the development plan
includes the creation of nature trails and elevated walkways, log huts and tree
houses, themed resting areas, and a toy train for children, enhancing the
overall visitor experience.
Regarding the
future expansion plansit was revealed that the Department is looking ahead with
an expansion blueprint that includes the construction of 18 additional animal
enclosures. These will house prominent species such as the brown bear, snow
leopard, zebra, giraffe, rhinoceros, markhor, and red panda.
A major attraction
planned for the future is a Fossil/Dinosaur Park, aimed at educating and
entertaining visitors. Additionally, an AR/VR setup will be installed, offering
an immersive experience where visitors can explore extinct and rare species in
a virtual habitat. Plans also include supervised feeding sessions with prime
species, further enhancing visitor engagement.
The meeting
highlighted that a total of 2,13,523 visitors toured Jambu Zoo during 2023-24.
The footfall has already reached 1,80,144 visitors in 2024-25, generating a net
revenue of Rs 3.22 crore during this period.
It was also noted
that a dedicated workforce of 80 staff members operates in three shifts to
ensure smooth functioning and maintenance of the facility.
Chief Secretary
emphasized the need for sustained efforts in the zoo’s development to make it a
world-class attraction. The expansion plans align with the broader vision of
enhancing wildlife conservation, visitor engagement, and eco-tourism in the
region.