Current Affairs-Topics

Durgesh Aranya India's First Green-Certified Zoo in Himachal

The first zoo in India to receive IGBC certification is located in Bankhandi, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. The project, which covers 25 hectares and costs ₹230 crore, aims to promote sustainable infrastructure and eco-friendly initiatives.

Project Overview & Certification

  • Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park, first zoo in India to receive IGBC certification
  • Located in Bankhandi, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh
  • Project announced by CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on November 2, 2024
  • Phase one covers 25 hectares, costing ₹230 crore
  • Total project budget of ₹619 crore
  • Expected completion by third quarter of 2025
  • Registered with IGBC for both building and landscape certifications
  • Focuses on sustainable infrastructure and eco-friendly initiatives

Wildlife and Infrastructure Features

  • 34 animal enclosures approved by Central Zoo Authority
  • Will house 73 different animal species including:
    • Asiatic lion
    • Hog deer
    • Monitor lizard
    • Crocodile
    • Gharial
    • Various indigenous bird species
  • Specialized facilities include:
    • Nocturnal house for elusive cat species
    • Wetland aviary for native birds
    • Van Vaibhav Path
    • Biodiversity Court
  • Natural and immersive environment design

Environmental and Sustainability Aspects

  • Emphasis on high environmental standards

Focus areas include:

    • Energy efficiency
    • Water conservation
    • Waste management
    • Ecological balance maintenance
    • Sustainable building practices
    • Natural habitat preservation
  • Integration of conservation with innovation
  • Educational platform for wildlife conservation
  • Commitment to eco-tourism principles

Economic and Tourism Impact

  • Designed to boost regional tourism sector
  • Expected to generate significant employment opportunities
  • Focus on local youth employment
  • Aims to strengthen local economy
  • Positions Kangra as "Tourism Capital" of Himachal Pradesh
  • Integration of local culture and heritage
  • Creation of sustainable tourism model
  • Enhancement of region's tourist infrastructure

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