The Assam State Zoo, which is popularly known as the "Green Lung" of the Guwahati city, is set for a comprehensive revamp this New Year.
As thousands of people from far-flung areas of Assam are set to throng the Assam State Zoo on January 1, the authorities are gearing up with an upbeat set of mind to welcome the New Year.
There is a definite reason for the Assam Zoo authorities to be upbeat. After all, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has allocated ₹350 crore for the overall development of Northeast India’s premier zoo and ex-situ conservation centre.
The Assam State Zoo is located in the Hengrabari Reserve Forest in Guwahati and occupies an area of 175 hectares, which includes the botanical garden spread across an area of 82 hectares.
The zoo comprises a unique diversity of varied flora and fauna species and houses more than 112 species in all. The Guwahati Zoo was established in 1957 and was inaugurated and opened to the public for the first time in 1958.
GPlus reached out to Ashwin Kumar, the DFO of Assam State Zoo to gain insights for the upcoming project.
Talking to GPlus, Ashwin Kumar, DFO of Assam State Zoo stated, "The Assam State Zoo is set for a comprehensive revamp as part of an upcoming project."
"The auditorium will serve as an educational space for school children, providing opportunities to watch wildlife movies and engage in activities related to wildlife conservation," Kumar said.
Notably, the project also includes the establishment of veterinary facilities, including rescue centres, ensuring the safety of both animals and visitors.
Additionally, the revamped zoo will offer convenient parking facilities for visitors, contributing to a more enjoyable experience. As part of the upgrade, a state-of-the-art kitchen will be developed, enhancing the overall infrastructure.
The Public Works Department is set to execute the project, and the tender process is currently underway.
Apart from being the region’s premier zoo and ex-situ conservation centre, The Assam State Zoo offers quality services and facilities in the rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals, nature awareness, interpretation, and responsible nature tourism.
During the last 65 years of its existence, the Assam State Zoo continues to act as a repository of wild bio-diversity and a green lung for the city of Guwahati. It is also the best and most complete recreational and educational destination in Northeast India.