The authorities of the Nandankanan Zoological Park near here are considering signing of an agreement with their counterparts of the Auckland Zoo in New Zealand for collaboration and coordination, informed Forest and Environment Minister Bikram Keshari Arukha on Tuesday.
While celebrating the 61st foundation day of the Nandankanan Zoological Park, the Minister also stated that a master plan has been prepared for the zoo’s expansion for over 20 years. A budget of Rs 600 crore would be allocated for this, he said.A total of 26.5 lakh people visited the zoo till March 15 despite the Covid-19 pandemic situation, the Minister added. An official informed that Nandankanan provides a home to 3,700-3,800 animals and birds and 157 species.
This year, as many as 25 new animals were brought to the zoo. Two male tiger cubs, including a white one born to white tigress Sneha on January 2, 2020 in the zoo, were named during the zoo’s foundation day celebrations. The white tiger cub was named ‘Laba’ and the other ordinary tiger cub as ‘Kusha’. Notably, the zoo authorities had invited suggestions online from animal lovers for naming the two cubs.
A tiger safari bus-stand and a new exit gate for visitors were also inaugurated at the zoo on the occasion.
Among others, MLA Suresh Chandra Routray and Forest and Environment Department Secretary Mona Sharma were present during the celebrations.