Asia’s second largest zoological park was inaugurated by Minister of Forests K Raji on Saturday (February 13), according to The Hindu.
Animals and birds from Thrissur Zoo will be transferred to Puthur Zoological Park in phases, confirmed project director K S Deepa.
The first phase includes four animal enclosures, as well as the park’s head office and a veterinary complex. The animal enclosures are designed for Nilgiri langur, lion-tailed macaques, Indian bison and birds from Thrissur Zoo.
The zoological park, which was created with an investment of ₹360 crore ($49m), is set across 136 hectares. It was designed by Jon Coe Design Pty Ltd.
Animals will be moved from Thrissur Zoo
“The old Thrissur Zoo was just a bunch of cages,” Coe told The Times of India. “Animal behaviour was not a consideration.
“The new one is designed according to the needs of each species and has the facilities for breeding all of them as well. I’m excited and concerned about the outcome.”
Once completed, Puthur Zoological Park will boast 23 animal enclosures. Approximately one million plants and trees will be planted in stages. Zoo authorities expect around 3 million visitors annually.
The enclosures are immersive and simulate the animals’ natural habitats. They feature glass viewing areas and walkthrough aviaries.
Four new animal enclosures at Puthur
“Look at the changes that have happened in India in the past 20 years,” added Coe. “I think there is a lot of potential in India, and for the Thrissur Zoo.”
Elsewhere, South Korea’s Suwon MICE Complex recently opened a new addition, an aquarium called Hanwha Aqua Planet Gwanggyo.
The New South Wales government previously approved an AUS$16m project to upgrade Taronga Zoo Sydney’s Australia Precinct.
