Glass shields, new enclosures, picnic spot: How Assam Zoo will benefit from Rs 350 cr allotted by CM

Guwahati: As the Assam State Zoo, a landmark attraction in Guwahati, gears up to welcome hordes of visitors at the turn of the year, curiosity is building up over a revamp that is being conceptualized with Rs 350 crores allotted for the task by the Chief Minister.

So what happens to this mammoth sum? How will the authorities use it to upgrade the existing facilities? Business North East reached out to a senior official who shared some key insights with us.

“As the zoo falls under the purview of the state government, the Public Works Department (PWD) will execute the project,” said Ashwani Kumar, Director of the zoo.

When asked what changes would be made, Kumar said the zoo will soon hire a project management company to oversee the work. "To invite interested parties, the PWD will float a tender", he said.

Following the tendering process, the project management company will design and supervise the execution. "The ensuing construction will be carried out in tandem by the project management company, PWD, and forest department", said Kumar, adding what we will witness, in fact, is a "total overhaul."

“The front portion of the zoo will be revamped completely,” said the Director, adding that it will be turned into a "wholesome area." Elaborating further, Kumar said, "Upon entering the zoo, you will find a big park where there will be various types of venues such as a children’s playing area and a picnic spot, among other attractions. The enclosures where the animals are being kept will be changed and new veterinary centers and rescue centers will be opened for their benefit."

"Facilities for the visitors will also be spruced up to include proper eating and sitting facilities", Kumar revealed. All changes will be made as per the guidelines of the Central Zoo Authority”, said Kumar.

The background area, said Kumar, will also witness several changes. "Some of the major enclosures like those housing the leopards and the aviary are very small by zoo standards. These will be enlarged to give more space to animals and birds."

Glass shields will be used for the safety of animals and to improve the view of the visitors. Money generated through battery-operated vehicles will be used for making more enclosures for animals, Kumar shared, offering further insights into the process.

Going forward, special importance will be given to cleanliness and hygiene in the zoo for visitors and animals, said the official, adding that the kitchen will be "modernized" and facilities for preserving food will also be brought in.

The entire project will be finished within the next 3-4 years with the existing staff of 120 plus a few contractual workers.

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