Dhenkanal: The Kapilas zoo at the foothills of Kapilas in this district will soon get a facelift as the state government has sanctioned Rs 1.33 crore for this purpose.
The funds will be spent on building new enclosures on the zoo premises to house deer, Sambars, bears and crocodiles, it was learnt.
Besides, drinking water facilities will be installed and rest sheds constructed for the visitors.
Moreover, the zoo authorities also plan to renovate ponds for use by elephants.
Meanwhile, the 37-year-old zoo established in the picturesque surroundings of Kapilas hill is all decked up to welcome visitors with the onset of the tourist season.
Tourists have started arriving at the zoo with an atmosphere of chill prevailing in the area. The zoo authorities expect that the footfall will increase during Christmas and New Year.
A new welcome gate has been erected at the entrance of the zoo to welcome visitors while colourful flowers swaying in the air will usher in a new experience for visitors. A water sprinkler in the flower garden is an added attraction for the visitors. Moreover, the zoo authorities have made arrangements for boating while a new enclosure has already been built for wild animals.
Starting from a deer park in January 26, 1979, the zoo, which is home to over 150 wild animals and birds, has come a long way.
Three elephants – Kartik, Uma and Chandu – have become the centre of attraction for visitors, especially children while the ambience is perfect for picnickers. The forest officials have cleaned the jungle for the benefit of picnickers.
Divisional forest officer (DFO) Pradipta Kumar Sahu said the principal secretary, forests, and the principal chief conservator of forests (PCCF) recently visited the zoo and expressed satisfaction over the development. PNN