Record Footfall at Chhatbir Zoo Highlights Growing Public Interest in Wildlife Conservation
Chandigarh, August 21: The Punjab Government’s sustained efforts to promote wildlife conservation and create greater public awareness are showing visible results, with the Chhatbir Zoo witnessing significant visitor footfall during the first eight months of the year.
Sharing the details, Punjab Forests and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said that the Chhatbir Zoo recorded 3,71,011 visitors in the first eight months of the present year. He said the growing number of visitors reflects increasing public engagement with wildlife, conservation and environmental awareness.
The Minister said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has been consistently working to sensitise people about the importance of nurturing and preserving wildlife.
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, our government has worked consistently to sensitise people towards nurturing and preserving wildlife. The response from the public has been extremely encouraging,” said Lal Chand Kataruchak.
More Than 3.71 Lakh Visitors in Eight Months
According to the figures shared by the Forests and Wildlife Department, Chhatbir Zoo received 48,719 visitors in January, followed by 54,216 in February and 66,377 in March.
The zoo recorded 40,168 visitors in April, 33,134 in May, 71,928 in June, 35,980 in July and 20,489 visitors in August.
The Minister said that the consistent footfall demonstrates the growing popularity of the zoological park among families, students, tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
Conservation Initiatives Strengthening Visitor Experience
Highlighting the conservation-focused initiatives undertaken at Chhatbir Zoo, Lal Chand Kataruchak said several important initiatives have been implemented to strengthen wildlife protection while also improving the educational and recreational experience for visitors.
He said that the country’s biggest and longest walk-in aviary has emerged as a major attraction for visitors. The facility allows people to experience a closer connection with a diverse range of bird species while promoting awareness about their conservation.
An ultra-modern dinosaur park has also been established at the zoo. The facility is aimed at enhancing the educational and recreational experience of visitors, particularly children and young learners.
The Minister said that such initiatives are helping transform Chhatbir Zoo into an important centre for wildlife awareness, conservation education and public engagement.
He added that the Punjab Government will continue to undertake initiatives aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation and encouraging people to develop a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting biodiversity and natural ecosystems.