An Andhra Pradesh legislature committee has recommended transforming the Tirupati and Visakhapatnam zoo parks into world-class destinations based on Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve model. The report highlights infrastructure upgrades, PPP initiatives, and integrated tourism circuits.

  • Proposal to develop Tirupati and Visakhapatnam zoos based on Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve model.
  • Recommendation to integrate Vizag Zoo with Kambalakonda Sanctuary and Kailasagiri into a tourism circuit.
  • Urgent call to fill vacant posts and appoint additional veterinary staff.
  • Emphasis on PPP initiatives, zoo tourism, and animal adoption programs.
  • Proposed funding through CSR, MPLADS, and TTD.

The Andhra Pradesh Legislature Committee on Wildlife & Environment Protection has submitted a landmark report to the Legislative Assembly, outlining a transformative vision for the state's premier zoological facilities. Chaired by Speaker Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu, the committee, represented by MLAs Gondu Sankar Rao and Vegesna Narendra Varma Raju, has recommended that the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (SVZP) in Tirupati and the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) in Visakhapatnam be developed following the prestigious Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve model.

Strategic Modernization and Infrastructure

The committee's recommendations go beyond mere maintenance, advocating for a complete overhaul of the visitor experience. Key suggestions include the introduction of toy train facilities, the promotion of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives, and the creation of dedicated facilities to ensure full-day engagement for visitors. To support the welfare of the animals, the panel emphasized the immediate filling of all vacant positions and the appointment of additional veterinary doctors and staff.

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Tailored Development Plans

For the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam, the committee proposed a massive integration project. The goal is to link the zoo with the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary (KWS), the local beaches, and Kailasagiri to create a seamless tourism circuit. To facilitate safe movement within this circuit, the construction of foot over-bridges or underpasses has been recommended. Funding for this is expected to be mobilized through ₹3 crore from regional MPLADS funds.

In Tirupati, the focus for Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park is on accessibility and synergy with the pilgrimage circuit. The committee suggested setting up ticket counters in various locations across Tirupati and the Tirumala Hills, providing free bus facilities, and hiring multilingual guides. Crucially, the report suggests mobilizing funds from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and leveraging the massive influx of pilgrims, noting that currently, only about 4% of pilgrims visit the zoo.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that shifting from a traditional zoo model to a high-engagement wildlife reserve model can significantly boost regional eco-tourism. By integrating these parks into larger tourism circuits, Andhra Pradesh can create a sustainable economic engine that funds conservation through tourism revenue.

Transforming these zoological parks into world-class reserves is essential for both biodiversity conservation and modernizing the state's tourism infrastructure.

The Vizag Zoo, established in 1972, stands as the fourth largest in India, spanning 625 acres in the Seethakonda reserved forest. It serves as a vital hub for the conservation of Asiatic wild dogs. Meanwhile, the SVZP, founded in 1987 by former CM N.T. Rama Rao, occupies a massive 1254.71 hectares, with significant portions earmarked for future safari developments and new enclosures.

Did You Know?: The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Vizag is recognized by the Central Zoo Authority as the national coordinating zoo for the breeding of Asiatic wild dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the primary model suggested for the zoo development?
The committee suggested adopting the Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve model.

2. How will the development be funded?
Funding is proposed through CSR funds, MPLADS, TTD contributions, and PPP initiatives.