Tripura receives Rs 57 crore from DoNER for major renovation of Sepahijala Zoo. Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma announces infrastructure upgrades, plastic control measures, and plans to introduce exotic animals to boost eco-tourism and wildlife conservation.
Tripura has received a substantial financial boost for wildlife conservation and tourism development, with the state securing Rs 57 crore from the Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) for the large-scale renovation and infrastructure upgrade of Sepahijala Zoo, the state’s only zoological park.
The announcement was made by Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma during an impromptu visit to the zoo on Friday. His visit came amid recent criticism directed at the forest department over alleged poor maintenance of the popular tourist destination.
Addressing media personnel at the zoo premises, Minister Debbarma said the surprise inspection was prompted by widespread media reports following remarks made by a foreign tourist couple. The visitors had reportedly expressed disappointment over the alleged presence of plastic waste scattered across the zoo, raising concerns about cleanliness and environmental management.
“After the media coverage, I felt it was necessary to personally verify the situation. I do not intend to dismiss the concerns raised by the tourists, but based on my own inspection today, I did not find plastic waste littered across the zoo,” Debbarma stated. He emphasized that maintaining cleanliness and preserving the ecological integrity of the zoo remains a top priority for the department.
To further strengthen environmental discipline, the Forest Minister announced the introduction of a log-book system aimed at controlling plastic pollution within the zoo premises. Under the new mechanism, visitors who wish to carry plastic items inside the zoo will be required to register their details and sign a log book.
“If any plastic waste is later found in public areas of the zoo, the responsibility will be fixed on those who signed the log book. This system will help enforce accountability and discourage irresponsible behavior,” Debbarma explained.
Highlighting the broader development roadmap, the minister confirmed that the Rs 57 crore funding will be utilized for advanced infrastructure development throughout the Sepahijala Zoo. The renovation plan has already been prepared by the Central Zoo Authority, ensuring that the upgrades meet national standards for animal welfare, visitor experience, and environmental sustainability.
The proposed development includes improved animal enclosures, visitor facilities, internal pathways, waste management systems, and modern amenities aimed at enhancing eco-tourism. The project is expected to significantly improve the overall appeal of the zoo while ensuring better living conditions for wildlife.
In addition to infrastructure development, the Forest Minister revealed that discussions are underway to introduce exotic animal species at Sepahijala Zoo through structured animal exchange programmes with other zoos across the country. Such initiatives are expected to boost biodiversity, increase tourist footfall, and strengthen conservation education.
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Sepahijala Zoo, located near Agartala, is a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists and plays a vital role in wildlife awareness in Tripura. With the new funding support from DoNER, the state government aims to transform the zoo into a modern, environmentally responsible, and tourist-friendly destination.
The renovation project is also expected to generate employment opportunities and reinforce Tripura’s position on the eco-tourism map of Northeast India.
