Hyderabad’s Wildest Day: 24,000 Animal Lovers Pack Nehru Zoo Park

Hyderabad’s Nehru Zoological Park witnessed a historic surge in footfall this Sunday, as a record 24,000 animal lovers and families poured in to enjoy the summer holidays amid pleasant weather. The unprecedented turnout marks one of the highest single-day visitor counts in the zoo’s six-decade history, transforming the park into a vibrant hub of wildlife enthusiasm and conservation awareness.

 

Unprecedented Crowd:

The zoo saw about 24,000 visitors on Sunday, far surpassing its usual weekend average and setting a new benchmark for public engagement. The influx was driven by school vacations and favorable weather, making the zoo a top destination for families seeking a day out with nature.

 

Enhanced Facilities and Crowd Management:

Anticipating the rush, zoo authorities ramped up preparations by deploying additional security personnel, opening extra booking counters, expanding the fleet of battery-operated vehicles, and installing more drinking water units. These measures ensured smooth crowd movement and minimal wait times, despite the heavy turnout.

 

Wildlife Education and Conservation:

To enrich the visitor experience, special animal talk shows and reptile awareness sessions were held throughout the day. These interactive programs highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation, the role of animals in ecological balance, and the urgent need to protect natural habitats. The zoo also promoted its animal adoption program, encouraging visitors to support conservation efforts directly.

 

A Living Legacy:

Established in 1963 near the historic Mir Alam Tank, Nehru Zoo Park is home to over 2,240 animals spanning 194 species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It is the first zoo in India to arrange animals in zoological order within open enclosures, offering a near-natural ambiance that benefits both animals and visitors.

 

Eco-Friendly Initiatives:

In line with World Environment Day’s “End Plastic Pollution” theme, the zoo intensified public awareness campaigns to encourage a plastic-free environment, further reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.

 

Outlook:

The record-breaking turnout at Nehru Zoo Park not only underscores Hyderabad’s growing love for wildlife but also highlights the vital role urban zoos play in education, conservation, and community engagement. With enhanced facilities and a renewed focus on conservation, the zoo continues to be a cherished destination for generations of animal lovers.

 

Sources: The Hans India, Telangana Today, Munsif Daily, Siasat