Agartala: Tripura has received Rs 57 crore from the Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) for infrastructure upgradation of the state’s only zoo at Sepahijala, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma said on Friday.
The minister made the announcement during a surprise visit to the zoo following criticism over its maintenance and cleanliness.
Debbarma said he decided to inspect the facility after media reports highlighted the dissatisfaction expressed by a foreign tourist couple over the alleged presence of plastic waste inside the zoo premises.
“After the report drew public attention, I felt it was necessary to visit the zoo personally. I do not wish to contradict the observations made by the tourists, but during my surprise visit today, I did not notice any discarded plastic waste scattered inside the zoo,” he told reporters.
To further strengthen waste management and ensure accountability, the minister said a logbook system would be introduced for visitors carrying plastic items.
“Anyone entering the zoo with plastic materials will have to sign a logbook. If plastic waste is later found littered in public areas, the concerned visitors will be held responsible,” he said.
On future development plans, Debbarma said the Rs 57 crore grant would be utilised for comprehensive infrastructure development across the zoo. He added that a detailed master plan for the Sepahijala zoo had already been prepared by the Central Zoo Authority.
“The funds will be used to create modern and advanced infrastructure throughout the zoo area. In addition, discussions are underway to introduce exotic animal species through animal exchange programmes,” the minister said.Sepahijala zoo, located about 25 km from Agartala, is a major tourist attraction in the state and houses a variety of indigenous and captive animal species.