Can Mumbai ever have a world-class zoo?

BYCULLA ZOO | What's preventing the authorities from developing Rani Baug as a top-notch destination?

- Devashri Bhujbal

Singapore has one of the finest zoos in the world. New York boasts of Bronx Zoo and Berliners take pride in showing off their zoological garden.

The question being asked by Mumbaikars and tour operators is when the metropolis will have a world-class zoo.

Said K Kumar, Chembur resident: "Our zoo does not hold any attraction to Mumbaikars any more because it has so little to offer."

A big city tour operator, who did not wish to be identified, said the infrastructure at the zoo in Mumbai was pathetic. "Also the crowds are ill-mannered," he added.

The Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo in Byculla, popularly known as Rani Baug, is a top tourist destination in Mumbai. With winter holidays coming up, the zoo is expected to witness high footfall, especially the children eager to see various birds and animals, and the not-to-be-missed penguins.

In May 2023, the city's only botanical garden and zoo broke all records and registered 4.5 lakh footfall.

With the rising popularity of the municipal corporation-run zoo, the question arises: Can Mumbai get an international-level zoo?