Argus News - Sambalpur Zoo to be Upgraded as Odisha’s First Midsize Zoo as Dharmendra Pradhan Launches Expansion Projects

Sambalpur, Nov 24: Sambalpur Zoo is set for a major transformation as Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced its development into a midsize zoo.

Union Minister Pradhan laid the foundation stone for several projects, including a state-of-the-art glass enclosure for Royal Bengal Tigers. This will make Sambalpur Zoo the first in Odisha to showcase tigers in a glass enclosure, offering visitors a unique experience.

Zoo authorities have planned to bring four Royal Bengal Tigers, both male and female, to the facility soon. The glass enclosure will provide a safe yet close view of the majestic animals. Currently, the zoo houses a leopard in a similar enclosure, which has already attracted significant public interest.

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In addition to the tiger enclosure, two ponds will be constructed to house four crocodiles and four gharials. These initiatives mark the beginning of development works worth ₹5 crore, aimed at expanding the zoo’s infrastructure and enhancing visitor experience.

Dharmendra Pradhan further revealed that the Centre has given policy approval to upgrade Sambalpur Zoo into a midsize zoo, following a request from the Odisha government. “For this expansion, 35 hectares of land are required, and the district administration is working to identify and transfer suitable land to the zoo authorities,” said the Union Education Minister.

With over 70 species of animals and birds already present, the zoo is expected to grow further with new facilities for birds and other wildlife. The upgrade will also bring in more central funding, ensuring better conservation, management, and tourism opportunities.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s Sambalpur visit enters its second day Monday. After concluding the Sambalpur Zoo programmes, he will next attend the district-level All India Cooperative Week celebration at the District Auditorium, Tapaswini Hall.

In the afternoon, he is scheduled to participate in the prize distribution ceremony of the MP Sports Festival at VSS Stadium. This is Dharmendra Pradhan’s first visit to western Odisha after the victory in the Bihar elections.