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Mumbai Floats Rs 490-Crore Tender to Build Exotic-Animal Zones at Byculla Zoo

Construction is scheduled to begin by mid-January under designs cleared by the Central Zoo Authority.

Overview

  • The 10-acre expansion on the Mafatlal and Poddar mill plots will feature continent-themed exhibits spanning Africa, the Americas and Australia.
  • Plans name more than 20 species, including white lions, jaguars, pumas, gorillas, chimpanzees, zebras, giraffes, giant anteaters and meerkats.
  • Work is expected to take about 36 months, with a separate ticketed entry and enclosures built with viewing galleries, habitat-style paddocks and holding areas.
  • Animal acquisitions will prioritize zoo-to-zoo exchanges within India, with international tenders used if needed, followed by a month-long quarantine and SOP-driven care.
  • Visitor facilities in the plan include a themed 'Cheetah Restaurant', shelters, toilets and pathways, while a separate Nahur aviary has a finalized contractor at about ₹146 crore.