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.
