Assam State Zoo being redeveloped into a world-class wildlife destination: Jayanta Mallabaruah

Guwahati, October 2: Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah today inspected the ongoing construction and development works at the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden and inaugurated Wildlife Week 2026, highlighting the state government’s efforts to transform the zoo into a leading wildlife destination with modern infrastructure and improved visitor facilities.During the visit, the Minister reviewed the progress of various construction works being undertaken at the zoo under the guidance of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He said several new facilities were being developed to enhance the zoo’s infrastructure while preserving and utilising its natural environment.The Minister expressed confidence that the ongoing redevelopment would significantly improve the zoo’s profile and help establish it as a prominent zoological destination in India and internationally. He said the zoo’s natural surroundings provided an important advantage in developing a distinctive wildlife experience for visitors.”With several new additions, we are rebuilding the zoo under the guidance of our Honourable Chief Minister. Once these works are completed, I believe we will be able to transform Assam’s zoo into a leading zoo, not only in India but also internationally,” Baruah said.One of the major attractions planned as part of the redevelopment is a large bird aviary. The Minister said the facility was being developed on a significant scale and could potentially become one of the largest bird aviaries in the world. The proposed aviary is expected to add a new dimension to the zoo’s attractions and strengthen its appeal among wildlife enthusiasts and visitors.The redevelopment plan also includes the introduction of a toy train facility to enable visitors to tour the zoo more conveniently. The Minister said the proposed service would allow tourists and other visitors to explore the premises while improving accessibility across the large zoo complex.The Minister said the development works were progressing at a satisfactory pace and that a visible outline of the proposed facilities could emerge over the next three to four months. However, he clarified that completing the entire redevelopment would require additional time.The overall project is being executed at an estimated cost of around Rs 340 crore. Baruah said the Chief Minister had directed that necessary additions be considered to ensure the zoo’s development met the intended objectives. He added that Forest Department officials had visited zoological parks in cities such as Bengaluru and Chennai to study existing facilities and incorporate relevant practices into the Assam project.The Minister’s inspection formed part of the day’s programme marking the inauguration of Wildlife Week 2026, which aims to highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and public awareness. As part of the observance, Hasti Pujan, or elephant worship, was organised, while Forest Department officials also took part in a bike rally.A giraffe naming programme was also scheduled as part of the day’s activities.Wildlife Week 2026 will continue until October 6. The concluding programme is scheduled to be held at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, where a meeting will mark the end of the week-long observance.