Javed Rana emphasizes measures to increase footfall at Jambu Zoo, calls for scientific approach to human-wildlife conflict

• Reviews Wildlife department functioning, development initiatives

JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a meeting to review the functioning of the Wildlife Department and the progress of various ongoing and sanctioned projects. During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held on projects sanctioned under CAPEX for the Pir Panjal and Chenab regions besides various development works at Jambu Zoo.

During the meeting, Javed Rana reviewed various developmental, plantation and conservation initiatives being undertaken across the Pir Panjal and Chenab Divisions under CAPEX.  He emphasised the need for timely completion of all sanctioned works and activities while ensuring the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

Appreciating the efforts of frontline staff, the Minister encouraged them to continue working with dedication towards strengthening the department’s conservation efforts and advancing its green mission.

The Minister reviewed the progress of infrastructure being developed at Jambu Zoo, including new and upgraded animal enclosures and specialised habitats for different species, along with facilities for rescued wildlife. He stressed that all such works should be planned and executed with due emphasis on animal welfare, scientific management and conservation.

Detailed discussions were also held on the development of walk-through aviaries, a butterfly park and landscaped green spaces, as envisaged under the zoo’s development and master-planning framework. The Minister called for ensuring that these facilities are developed in a manner that enhances both conservation and public engagement.

Javed Rana also reviewed arrangements for improving the overall visitor experience at the zoo, including walking tracks, battery-operated vehicle facilities. He directed the officers to explore further measures to increase visitor footfall and make Jambu Zoo a more attractive destination for families, students and tourists.

The Minister further called for exploring Smart City bus connectivity to Jambu Zoo to improve public transport access and facilitate greater visitor movement. Javed Rana emphasised that greater public engagement with the zoo would not only promote recreation but also help strengthen awareness about wildlife conservation and biodiversity and the development of Jambu Zoo as an important educational, recreational and tourism destination.

To strengthen preventive measures to address rising human-wildlife conflict, Forest Minister directed the introduction of safe, non-lethal deterrents to prevent wild animals from entering residential areas without causing them harm.

The Minister also called for identifying vulnerable locations, training local communities in safe response measures and strengthening rapid-response teams to deal with wildlife emergencies. He emphasised that protection of human lives and conservation of wildlife must go hand in hand, with prevention and community participation at the centre of the strategy.