Udaipur, February 7, 2025 - The construction of the Reptile House at Sajjangarh Biological Park is completed and is waiting for its inauguration. However, the Nocturnal Section has not even started, despite two years passing since approval. Around 200 to 300 visitors visit the park daily, but they will not be able to see nocturnal animals for now.

Approval and Budget Details

The Central Zoo Authority granted permission on April 7, 2023, to start both the Nocturnal and Reptile Sections. The plan was to introduce 10 species of reptiles and 10 species of nocturnal animals in the first phase. A budget of Rs 1.01 crore was approved, and the enclosures were to be built over 0.2 hectares. However, the entire budget was spent on the reptile section, leading to the need for additional funds. These extra funds were taken from the Zoo Trust to complete the project.

Nocturnal Section Not Started

The Nocturnal Section was supposed to house small nocturnal animals like Slow Loris, Porcupine, Civet, Honey Badger, Pangolin, Barn Owl, and Long-Eared Hedgehog.

Tenders for the Reptile Section were issued under the then-DFO Arun Kumar, but after his transfer in February 2023, no tenders were issued for the nocturnal section. Instead, focus shifted to the Lion Safari Project. When asked about the delay, Regional Forest Officer Ganesh Gothwal confirmed that work had not started but did not explain why.

Despite these developments, the Nocturnal Section remains neglected, and visitors will have to wait longer to see these creatures.

Source: Media Reports