It is really good news as the proposed plan of Rs.85 crore sent by the Maharajbagh Zoo management has got the principle approval by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA).Now the funds are awaited from the State government. The revised proposal was sent again last year. Even though it is not clear which department will provide this fund. However, there is strong possibility that this fund will be given by the tourism or urban development department or district planning committee as a special fund.
The present Maharajbagh Zoo is spread on 9 hectares. The proposed development plan is for 19 hectares. After funds are received, proposals for enclosures for the animals coming under Schedule I and Schedule II will have to be prepared during development work. Separate designs and budget will have to be approved by the Central Zoo Authority for this. There will be modern zoo concepts as per new rules in this centrally located zoo. The present zoo is 125-year old and not in line with the rules. Toilets, coffee shops and new routes will be created. Compound walls will be made and new enclosures for the animals will be made. Old enclosures will be renovated. The wildlife study, conservation and protection programme will be modernized. The safety measures will be developed. Medical safety for animals, sewer lines, electricity and water supply are proposed changes.
