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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