Chirag Gupta
Patna: On November 2, 2024, a review meeting was chaired by Dr. Prem Kumar, Minister of the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, to discuss development projects at the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park in Patna. The meeting included key officials such as the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Chief Wildlife Warden, and other departmental representatives, focusing on the progress of various initiatives within the park.
The Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park has achieved significant recognition, ranking fourth among large zoos according to the Central Zoo Authority. Recent enhancements include the introduction of special species such as the Black Panther and Hoolock Gibbon, along with the establishment of facilities like a Mother-Child Care Unit, a Postmortem Room, and a 24/7 Medical Monitoring Room. The park has also completed a small cat enclosure and upgraded its water park.
After a decade-long hiatus, plans for a toy train operation have been approved with an investment of ₹9.88 crore, marking a significant step forward for the park. Additionally, the formation of a Zoo Society, which has been pending for over ten years, is also expected to receive approval soon.
During the meeting, the Minister emphasised the urgency of commencing work on the toy train operation, as well as the upgrades to the water park and medicinal facilities in the Nature Library and medicinal garden. A National Biologist Conference was also held, attracting biologists from zoos across the country to share knowledge and best practices.
