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Byculla Zoo to get a four acre landscaped garden in two-years time

The area will be converted into spaces of different climatic settings, such as aquatic, desert, tundra and forest regions. The existing design will be altered with the addition of trees and shrubs and various ornamental features

Byculla Zoo to get a four acre landscaped garden in two-years time
SHARES

The only heritage garden in Mumbai, Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyaan and Zoo in Byculla is expected to get a sprawling four-acre landscaped garden in around two years at a cost of around ₹7 crore. The designated open space will depict various climatic conditions through its design and installations.

BMC commissioner Ajoy Mehta had unveiled the plan in his 2018-19 budget speech and the final nod has now been sought.

The total area of the gardens in the zoo, at present, is around 53 acres. A new garden will replace the old offices of the director, zoo & superintendent of gardens, where the zoo & garden department has been operating from for many decades. The offices have been shifted to the interpretation centre, which houses the Humboldt penguins.

A team from Rachana Sansad Academy of Architecture made the landscape design of the garden which was presented to the BMC Chief. The area will be converted into spaces of different climatic settings, such as aquatic, desert, tundra and forest regions. The existing design will be altered with the addition of trees and shrubs and various ornamental features. Elevated walkways and installations will also be a part of the plan.

Zoo director Dr. Sanjay Tripathi said the new garden will take about two years to be set up. The total cost is estimated at ₹7 crore as the existing office spaces will have to be demolished and the area will be flattened to house the new garden. The garden is to be made in such a way that it will attract school students for educational trips.

Byculla zoo was in news last year when it hiked its entry fees after the penguins were introduced in the zoo. Till July last year used to be ₹5 (₹2 for children) after which it was hiked to ₹50 per person which led to an almost 300% increase in monthly revenue for the zoo.

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