Assam State Zoo losing its sheen

BY A STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI, April 19: Assam State Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden has been losing its sheen with the fall in the number of species of fau and flora and their varieties in it. Poor upkeep due to lack of funds also adds to the fall in the number of visitors to the zoo.

Talking to The Sentinel, Assam State Zoo Divisiol Forest Officer (DFO) S.K. Seal Sarmah said: “Unlike some other zoos elsewhere in the country we used to receive 6-7 lakh visitors a year before. However, from 2014-2015 the number of visitors to the zoo has declined to as low as 1.5 lakh a year.”

What is even more surprising is that this fall in the number of visitors to the Zoo has been recorded when the population in the city has been on the rise.

“As an action plan the zoo authorities are trying to bring some several exotic and popular animals to the Zoo in the days ahead. Moreover, for the betterment of the animals, there are some projects under construction. Apart from it, an amusement park for children is also under construction, and will be ready by this month,” said the DFO, and added: “Less fund from State Government and low budget have created a fincial crisis.”

The zoo that has two electric cars at present will soon get two more electric cars for the convenience of the visitors.

Meanwhile, after the stealing of Tokay Gecko lizard from the Zoo in 2014, the Zoo authority has tightened its security system for protecting the animals. Forest guards, along with Forest Battalion forces, have been deployed. Women guards are also seen in the zoo.