Guwahati, Jan 2: The Assam government has announced plans to set up two new zoos in Dibrugarh and Silchar, adopting the open zoo model.
The projects will involve significant financial investments of ₹259 crore and ₹214 crore respectively. Additionally, an Institute of Wildlife and Health for Wild Animals will be established in Chabua to further enhance wildlife conservation efforts.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma laid the foundation for a project to modernize the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden, with a financial outlay of ₹362.04 crore. This initiative aims to transform the zoo into a state-of-the-art facility for both animals and visitors, ensuring it remains a leading conservation hub in Northeast India.
Established in 1957, the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden is the only zoological and botanical centre in the Northeast and plays a critical role in preserving the region’s rich biodiversity.
The modernization project will introduce advanced facilities to enhance the visitor experience and improve the living conditions of the animals.
Sarma noted that poaching in the state has almost disappeared, thanks to the vigilance of the Special Task Force of Assam Police, tasked specifically with addressing cases involving elephants and tigers.
The state government has reclaimed 74,115 bighas of encroached forest land, leading to an increase in animal populations and further deterring poaching activities.
During the event, the Chief Minister released a report on Elephant Population Estimation in Assam, which revealed a population of 5,828 elephants in the state. This growth reflects the success of Assam’s wildlife conservation efforts.
The function was attended by key dignitaries, including Environment and Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, Health and Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal, MP Guwahati Bijulee Kalita Medhi, Guwahati Mayor Mrigen Sarania and Special Chief Secretary (Forest) MK Yadava.
Reflecting on his childhood visits to the zoo, Chief Minister Sarma expressed his commitment to modernizing the facility. The significant investments in the Assam State Zoo and the new zoos in Dibrugarh and Silchar underscore the government’s dedication to wildlife conservation, environmental sustainability, and promoting eco-tourism in the region.
