In a major step towards animal welfare, the Bengal government is planned to bring all 12 zoos in the state under a single-window surveillance system using high-tech CCTV cameras.
West Bengal Forest and Environment Minister Manoj Kumar Oraon said that the initiative is directed at monitoring zoo operations and curb irregularities.
Speaking to The Statesman, Oraon said the proposed system would enable authorities at the state headquarters to keep a close watch on all 12 zoos in real time.
“There was a syndicate raj even in the supply of food for animals in our zoos. This surveillance system will help eliminate such practices that deprive defenceless and vulnerable animals of proper care,” the minister said.
He added that the government’s priority is to ensure that animals receive adequate nutrition, clean drinking water and scientific care. The surveillance network will also help track animal health, behaviour and habitat conditions, strengthen zoo management, improve animal welfare and aid in the protection of endangered species.
Earlier on Tuesday, Oraon met Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in Kolkata. He later left for Delhi to hold discussions with the concerned departments on the overall development of the forest sector, wildlife conservation and protection, and the modernisation of zoos in West Bengal.
The minister also said he would soon visit the North Bengal Wild Animals Park (Bengal Safari) near Siliguri.
Spread over 297 hectares, the park has been developed within a natural sal forest ecosystem in 2022. It currently houses three major safari zones—Mixed Herbivore Safari (91 hectares), Tiger Safari (20 hectares) and Asiatic Black Bear Safari (20 hectares), along with a modern zoo.
Visitors can enjoy safaris in specially designed vehicles through the Mixed Herbivore, Tiger, Asiatic Black Bear and Leopard safari zones, besides attractions such as the aviary trail, lesser cats trail, and the gharial and crocodile pond.