Chhatbir Zoo sees record 80,508 visitors in two months amid Punjab’s wildlife push
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, February 18, 2026: The Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is witnessing encouraging results from its sustained wildlife conservation and awareness initiatives, with a sharp rise in visitor footfall at the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, Chhatbir.
Sharing the details, Forest and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak informed that the zoo recorded 80,508 visitors in the first two months of the year, reflecting growing public interest in wildlife preservation and eco-tourism.
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, our government has worked consistently to sensitise people towards nurturing and preserving wildlife. The public response has been extremely encouraging,” the Minister said.
Providing a month-wise breakup, Kataruchak stated that 48,719 visitors thronged the zoo in January, while 31,789 visitors were recorded in February, drawn by the diverse range of animals and birds in the well-maintained natural surroundings.
Major Attractions and Infrastructure Upgrades
Highlighting key initiatives, the Minister said the country’s longest walk-in aviary has emerged as a major attraction for visitors. An ultra-modern dinosaur park has also been developed to enhance the educational and recreational experience, especially for children.
In terms of infrastructure strengthening, he added that the 1,200-metre wildlife safari boundary wall has been reinforced and a 260 kV solar power plant installed to promote clean energy usage within the premises.
A dedicated critical care unit has been set up at the lion safari to provide specialised treatment for carnivorous animals, while an open-air Zoo Education Plaza has been developed to facilitate awareness programmes for students and visitors.
Statewide Conservation Measures
Expanding on the broader conservation agenda, Lal Chand Kataruchak said the Indus River Dolphin has been declared Punjab’s State Aquatic Animal. Additionally, 13 wildlife sanctuaries across the state have been declared plastic-free zones to promote environmental sustainability.
He further informed that five key wetlands — Harike, Ropar, Kanjhli, Keshopur and Nangal — have been included among 100 wetlands selected by the Union Government for priority development, strengthening Punjab’s ecological preservation framework.
The Minister asserted that these initiatives collectively reflect the state government’s commitment to strengthening wildlife infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism and fostering environmental awareness among citizens.