The Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (SVZP), often considered as a virtual extension of Seshachalam forests, is all set to demarcate itself from the forest area. The SVZP officials, with the help of the Forest Department, have been digging trenches along the periphery of reserve forest, to create a well defined boundary for itself and embark upon a series of developmental works to improve the menagerie.
Since 1993, when it was declared open to public, the zoological park had a six kilometre protective wall along the Alipiri Bypass Road. Now, in a bid to establish its limits, officials have been digging a trench with dimensions of 3.5 metres wide, 3.0 metres deep and 1.5 metres wide (bottom), to cover its 16 kilometres boundary.
The works have been phased with the ‘Neeru Chettu’ activities taken up by the Divisional Forest Officer of Tirupati Zone.
Speaking to The Hindu , SVZP Curator Y. Srinivasulu Reddy said that ongoing works would soon be followed by a protective wall, and asserted that the trenches would not only prevent the movement of animals (from zoological park into the forest areas) but also contribute towards rainwater conservation and eliminate any red sanders smuggling-related skirmishes.
“About eight kilometres have been covered till date and the remaining would be completed by the month of June, subsequently with the construction of a boundary wall,” he added.
Special attractions in the new proposed layout
Spread over 1,200 hectares, SVZP is considered as one of the largest zoological parks, in terms of area. About 290 hectares of the area has already been developed in form of animal enclosures, herbivore and lion safaris etc., In another month, visitors can catch a glimpse of the majestic white tigers via a safari spread over 14 hectares. Besides this, the ‘Proposed Layout Plan of S.V. Zoological Park’ will house several special attractions, in the days to come.
Officials are planning to construct watch towers, walk through aviaries, animal safaris etc., all in the remaining undeveloped region of the zoo.
“Plans are afoot to develop a Nocturnal Zoo, a special attraction to house night dwellers. This will remain an extension of the zoo, but operating in the evening hours. The much touted night safari will also be a part of this facility,” remarked Mr. Reddy.
Trekking would involve a special package with tour guides, wherein visitors can view the existing enclosures and then travel the path to ‘Zoo Hill View Points’ situated at Mekala Banda, Swami Padalu and other areas. Officials hope to revamp the zoological park with special attractions, maximum by the year 2018.
