Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government revealed that Nandankanan Zoo is home to 4,242 wild animals of 168 species. The zoo animals include 1,871 birds of 78 species and 1,980 mammals of 54 species. Additionally, there are 21 amphipods of 6 species.
In response to a query by BJD’s Bibhuti Balabantray, Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia, Minister of Forests, Environment and Climate Change, informed the State Assembly that the government plans to bring in zebras, cheetahs, Asian lions, and wild hens from different zoos.
Nandankanan Zoo offers various attractions, including a battery-powered toy train, a ropeway, four safaris (tiger, lion, bear, and herbivore), and battery-powered vehicles. The zoo also provides toll-free entry for disabled people, wheelchairs for sightseeing, and free wheelchairs for senior citizens.
To boost tourism, the government plans to construct a tunnel aquarium, renovate Kanjia Lake, implement an animal exchange program, and establish special enclosures for leopards, small cat species, exotic birds, and animals. The government will also upgrade all safari entrances and the main gate of the state botanical garden, and establish a nature-interpretation centre.
