Assam State Zoo being redeveloped into world-class wildlife destination: Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah
Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announces a Rs 340 crore redevelopment of Assam State Zoo, featuring a massive bird aviary and a toy train.
The Assam State Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden is set for a massive transformation, aiming to evolve from a local attraction into a premier global wildlife destination. Environment and Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announced that the facility is undergoing an extensive redevelopment project to introduce modern infrastructure and world-class amenities for visitors.
A Rs 340 Crore Vision for Wildlife Tourism
During a recent inspection of the ongoing construction works, Minister Mallabaruah revealed that the entire redevelopment project is being executed at an estimated cost of approximately Rs 340 crore. The project, being carried out under the direct guidance of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, seeks to balance cutting-edge facilities with the preservation of the zoo's natural ecological character.
"With several new additions, we are rebuilding the zoo under the guidance of our Honourable Chief Minister. Once these works are completed, I believe we will be able to transform Assam's zoo into a leading zoo, not only in India but also internationally," Mallabaruah stated.
World-Class Attractions: Giant Aviary and Toy Train
The redevelopment plan includes several high-profile features designed to captivate wildlife enthusiasts and tourists alike:
- Massive Bird Aviary: One of the most ambitious components is a large-scale bird aviary. The Minister noted that this facility is being developed on such a grand scale that it could potentially rank as one of the largest bird aviaries in the world.
- Toy Train Facility: To enhance accessibility and make exploring the sprawling complex more enjoyable, a new toy train service will be introduced, allowing visitors to tour the premises with ease.
The Minister indicated that while the visible outline of these new facilities is expected to emerge within the next three to four months, the total completion of the entire project will require more time.
Learning from the Best
To ensure the new facilities meet international standards, Forest Department officials have conducted study tours to renowned zoological parks in cities like Bengaluru and Chennai. This research aims to incorporate best practices and modern management techniques into the Assam project.
Wildlife Week 2026 Celebrations
The Minister's inspection coincided with the inauguration of Wildlife Week 2026, a week-long observance dedicated to conservation and public awareness. The celebrations, which run until October 6, included several unique events:
- Hasti Pujan: A traditional ceremony involving the worship of elephants.
- Bike Rally: Organized by Forest Department officials to promote wildlife awareness.
- Giraffe Naming Ceremony: A special event held to engage the public with the zoo's inhabitants.
The Wildlife Week observances will conclude with a final meeting at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, marking the end of a week focused on the vital importance of protecting India's natural heritage.