New Zoo Park Planned on Hyderabad Outskirts

Telangana is set to expand its wildlife conservation and tourism efforts with the development of a new zoo park on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The initiative was discussed during a review meeting led by Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on August 30 at the state secretariat. The proposed zoo park is part of the state’s broader strategy to enhance tourism, conservation, and recreational spaces around Hyderabad.

Current Status of Nehru Zoo Park

Hyderabad’s existing Nehru Zoo Park, located near Mir Alam Tank in Bahadurpura, is one of the city’s prominent wildlife attractions. Spanning 380 acres, it has been a key conservation and recreational hub since its inauguration on October 6, 1963. The zoo was originally constructed over four years, beginning in 1959, and was established after relocating enclosures from the Public Gardens.

The Nehru Zoo Park is home to a diverse range of animals, including 664 mammals across 55 species, 1,227 birds of 97 species, 341 reptiles of 38 species, and 8 amphibians of 2 species. The natural landscape and proximity to the Miralam Tank, an indigenous arch bund dam with 24 arches built 200 years ago, make it an attractive destination for both migratory and resident birds. The zoo also supports wildlife conservation efforts through animal adoption programs, allowing individuals and organizations to sponsor animals for specific periods.

Planning for a New Zoo Park

In the recent review meeting, Chief Minister Reddy emphasized the need to develop a new zoo park that complements the existing Nehru Zoo Park. He directed officials to chart out a comprehensive plan for the new facility, which aims to enhance Hyderabad’s appeal as a tourism and conservation hub. The proposed zoo park is expected to incorporate modern facilities and conservation practices, providing an upgraded experience for visitors and fostering greater awareness of wildlife preservation.

Expanding Tourism Initiatives: SPEED Projects

The development of a new zoo park is part of the broader SPEED (Smart, Proactive, Efficient, and Effective Delivery) projects being pursued by the Telangana government. These initiatives focus on enhancing public service delivery and infrastructure development across various sectors, including tourism. As part of the SPEED projects, the chief minister also directed officials to draft a new tourism policy for the state.

This new policy will draw on successful models from other states and will place a strong emphasis on eco-tourism, temple tourism, and health tourism. By diversifying the tourism offerings, Telangana aims to attract a wider range of visitors and boost the local economy. The plan for the new zoo park aligns with these objectives, promoting eco-friendly tourism and increasing public engagement with wildlife conservation.

Exploring Public-Private Partnerships

In line with the vision of expanding tourism infrastructure, officials were advised to explore public-private partnerships (PPP) where feasible. This approach aims to leverage private investment and expertise to enhance the resources and facilities available within the state’s tourism sector. For the new zoo park, PPPs could play a crucial role in funding construction, maintenance, and operational improvements, ensuring that the park meets high standards of service and sustainability.

Heli-Tourism and Other Innovative Concepts

Another key directive from the review meeting was to explore the potential for heli-tourism in Telangana. This innovative tourism model would involve helicopter tours, providing aerial views of key attractions and offering a unique way for tourists to experience the state’s natural and cultural heritage. The officials were asked to assess the viability of heli-tourism in specific areas and integrate it into the broader tourism strategy where appropriate.

Implications for Hyderabad’s Development

The planning of a new zoo park and the associated tourism initiatives reflect the Telangana government’s commitment to boosting Hyderabad’s status as a major tourism and conservation destination. By expanding facilities and enhancing the state’s tourism policy, the government aims to create more recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. This approach also supports broader environmental goals, promoting sustainable development and wildlife conservation.

The new zoo park, once completed, is expected to be a significant addition to Hyderabad’s attractions, providing an updated space for wildlife conservation and education. As the plans progress, further details regarding the park’s design, funding, and timeline will be crucial for understanding its full impact on the region.

Conclusion

Telangana’s initiative to develop a new zoo park on the outskirts of Hyderabad represents a forward-thinking approach to tourism and conservation. By integrating modern facilities, public-private partnerships, and innovative tourism models like heli-tourism, the state aims to create a dynamic and sustainable tourism ecosystem. As the planning process unfolds, the new zoo park is poised to become a cornerstone of Hyderabad’s efforts to balance urban development with environmental stewardship.