Assembly panel pitches for Singapore-style makeover of Visakhapatnam zoo

Members of the Assembly committee recently visited the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam to assess its current state and operational capacity. During the inspection, the panel emphasized the need for a modern makeover, drawing inspiration from high-standard facilities like the Singapore Zoo to enhance animal welfare and visitor experience.

Speaker Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu highlighted critical challenges facing the institution, specifically pointing to a persistent funding gap and 59 vacant positions across various departments. These staffing and financial hurdles must be addressed before the proposed large-scale modernization can be effectively implemented.

The panel plans to submit a formal recommendation for a new wildlife protection action plan, which may include legal reforms to streamline management. The initiative aims to improve biological diversity conservation while positioning the zoo as a premier destination for ecological tourism through upgraded infrastructure. Source: The Hindu.