Unified ticketing for all zoos will enhance tourist experience: Himachal Pradesh CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said that the development of a unified ticketing platform for all zoos in the state would go a long way in enhancing tourists’ experience while generating revenue that could be invested in conservation efforts, infrastructure improvement and the welfare of the wildlife.

“Our state’s natural beauty, dense forests, snow-covered Himalayan peaks and the precious wildlife are not just our heritage but our lifeline,” he added.

Sukhu adopted a monal bird and appealed to people to also adopt wildlife species housed in zoos and parks of the state. The Chief Minister, who attended the closing ceremony of 73rd Wildlife Week here, announced the formation of a committee of experts to conduct a comprehensive study on the conservation of pheasant species.

He also announced the inclusion of the Sarchu valley of Spiti as a conservation reserve to protect its fragile ecosystem and wildlife corridors.

Sukhu said, “While the government is taking all necessary steps for wildlife conservation, we must understand that its protection is a collective responsibility. Until we all come together to safeguard our environment, the protection of our wildlife will remain incomplete.” He added that his government had introduced several initiatives, including compensation schemes for farmers and villagers affected by wildlife activity, in this direction. “Himachal is home to rare species such as snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan Thar, Antelope and black and brown bears, etc, which need protection,” he asserted.

The Chief Minister said that the state government was actively working on measures to curb forest fires, poaching and keep forests free from all kinds of pollution. He added that an international-standard zoo was being developed at Dehra in Kangra district at a estimated budget of Rs 680 crore. “The first phase of the zoo is expected to be completed by June 2025. It will give a boost to tourism in the region,” he added.

Sukhu inaugurated two new websites for the Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park and the Spiti Wildlife Division. He also unveiled several publications, including ‘Field Compendium on Rescue of Wild Animals in Distress and Their Release’, ‘Orchids of Shimla Water Catchment’, ‘Spiti’s Natural Tapestry’ and the ‘Management Plan of Potters Hill Conservation Reserve’.