Kolkata, Nov. 4 -- Jhargram is set to roar with the arrival of Royal Bengal Tigers, with work on a dedicated tiger safari gaining momentum at the Jangalmahal Zoological Park.
The state government expects the project to be completed within the next two years, opening up fresh tourism opportunities in the region.
Located at Dhabani Beat, around 2 km from Jhargram town, the zoo spreads across nearly 23 hectares and is known for its natural forest surroundings. Originally established to house rescued deer, it has gradually developed into a full-fledged zoological park, now home to 339 animals, birds and reptiles of different species. Its residents include leopards, hyenas, bears, wolves, fishing cats, jungle cats, spotted deer, sambar, nilgai, porcupines and several species of snakes and birds.
The proposed tiger safari will initially cover 65 acres. Forest minister Manoj Kumar Oraon recently inspected the site and said Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had allocated Rs 25 crore for the project in the state's first Budget. He said tendering would begin shortly.
The Land and Land Reforms department is also reportedly transferring 226.37 acres to the Forest department for the safari project, which will follow the Siliguri model.
Five surplus Royal Bengal tigers, along with leopards, hog deer and spotted deer, are expected to be brought from Siliguri. The State Zoo Authority has initiated the process of identifying the animals, while clearance has been sought from the Central Zoo Authority.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.