JAMMU, Jan 24: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo conducted a visit to the Jambu Zoo today to closely examine the ongoing projects and assess the amenities available for visitors.
He was joined by PCCF/Chief Wildlife Warden Sarvesh Rai, Regional Wildlife Warden of Jammu Jyotsana, Additional Director of Jambu Zoo Anil Atri, along with other senior officials from the department.
During his tour, the Chief Secretary evaluated various animal enclosures and visitor facilities and reviewed the developmental activities currently underway in the zoo.
He shared his aspirations for Jambu Zoo to gain recognition similar to other renowned zoos across the nation and to meet international standards. He underscored the necessity of formulating a comprehensive developmental framework for the future expansion of the zoo, which should include the establishment of educational, recreational, and animal welfare amenities, enhancing the zoo’s overall attractiveness.
In an effort to ensure that Jambu Zoo aligns with global standards, the Chief Secretary recommended sending zoo officers to esteemed national and international zoos for training to learn advanced management techniques and technological advancements. This approach will enable them to significantly contribute to the zoo’s development and management efforts, he noted.
The Chief Secretary also emphasized the need to increase visitor numbers through innovative strategies and community engagement initiatives, in addition to enhancing the zoo’s animal collection.
During discussions, the zoo management informed the Chief Secretary about the need to strengthen the field staff, complemented by a dedicated engineering team. They also suggested that augmenting the fleet of battery-operated vehicles and the veterinary expert team would greatly enhance the zoo’s appeal.
The Chief Secretary pledged his support in tackling these challenges and directed the relevant authorities to expedite the animal collection process, including the completion of species-specific infrastructures.
Previously, the Chief Wildlife Warden briefed the Chief Secretary about the existing 17 enclosures housing various wild animal species like tigers, lions, leopards, Himalayan black bears, blackbucks, snakes, and crocodiles for public viewing. He was also informed that 13 new animal enclosures would be constructed during the 2024-25 period, featuring species such as hippopotamuses, ostriches, Indian gaurs, hyenas, wolves, and fishing cats. A walk-through aviary is currently under construction, which will host a variety of native and exotic bird species.
The future expansion plans for the zoo were also presented to the Chief Secretary, which entail the construction of 18 additional animal enclosures. Notable species to be included in this expansion are brown bears, snow leopards, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, markhors, and red pandas.
Furthermore, it was revealed that a herbivores safari will also be developed soon to enhance the attractions of Jambu Zoo and elevate its status to that of larger zoos.
