Habitat-themed makeover, rescue centre and 201-species plan anchor Delhi Zoo revamp

From habitat-themed animal zones to a dedicated rescue and rehabilitation centre and a proposed collection of 201 species, the National Zoological Park in Delhi has drawn up a modernisation plan to transform itself into a model urban zoo in India and Asia.

The proposal envisages engaging a multidisciplinary design consultant to prepare a scientific and implementable blueprint for the zoo’s transformation. The consultancy, estimated to cost Rs 3.78 crore, will include baseline studies, a revised master plan and a Detailed Project Report in line with the requirements of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and the Department of Expenditure, an official said.

The modernisation plan proposes 38 new enclosures, including the demolition of 11 ageing structures that are unsuitable for retrofitting, while 32 existing enclosures will be upgraded. Seven ponds and water bodies across the 188-acre campus are also proposed to be rejuvenated, he said.

The master plan also includes sustainable waste and water management systems, restoration of green spaces and the creation of biodiversity trails for nature education. It further proposes integrating the zoo with nearby heritage sites, including Purana Qila, to create a cultural and biodiversity corridor while positioning the National Zoological Park as a model urban zoo in India and Asia, he added.

The redesigned zoo will follow habitat-based zoning, with species housed in naturalistic environments instead of conventional enclosures. Existing facilities will be upgraded with improved night shelters, barriers and other infrastructure to meet Central Zoological Authority standards while enhancing animal welfare, he said.

“Among the enclosures proposed for retrofitting are those for white tigers, tigers, lions, giraffes, rhinos, elephants, chimpanzees, gharials, sloth bears and several deer species. New enclosures have been planned for cheetahs, jaguars, meerkats, otters, baboons, wild dogs, giant squirrels, honey badgers and African oryx,” the official said.

The project also includes specialised facilities such as a nocturnal house, reptile house, butterfly garden with breeding and display units, Indian walk-through aviary and exotic aviary. Existing enclosures for leopards, foxes, fishing cats, jungle cats, ostriches and cassowaries are proposed to be rebuilt after demolition, the proposal stated.

According to the proposal, the zoo’s animal collection will also be expanded. The tentative collection plan envisages 201 species with around 2,943 animals, including butterflies, through planned additions, relocations and conservation breeding in accordance with CZA guidelines.

The project proposes a dedicated rescue and rehabilitation centre to house rescued, injured and infirm wild animals. Separate facilities have been planned for carnivores, herbivores, birds and reptiles to ensure scientific management and rehabilitation of wildlife.

According to the official, veterinary infrastructure will also be significantly upgraded with a modern hospital equipped with an operation theatre, diagnostic laboratory, radiology unit, quarantine facility, pharmacy, post-mortem unit and isolation wards. Separate food preparation areas for herbivores and carnivores have also been proposed.

To improve visitor experience, the zoo plans to introduce smart ticketing, enhanced surveillance, mobile applications, augmented reality exhibits and battery-operated mobility solutions. New interpretation centres and signages are also proposed to promote wildlife education and conservation awareness, the official said.

The proposal seeks to address congestion outside the zoo by developing a redesigned entry plaza along Mathura Road with organised parking, pedestrian access, a visitor centre, food court and cloak room. A second entrance near Bhairon Mandir Road will also be upgraded with public amenities, he added.

Inside the zoo, separate pedestrian pathways, cycling routes and battery-operated cart corridors have been proposed to improve visitor movement, he said, adding that dedicated service roads for zoo vehicles will ensure smooth animal transfers, veterinary emergencies and disaster response operations.