Gujarat’s Deesa to get ₹542-cr zoo, desert-themed night safari: Official
The Gujarat Forest Department will develop the project on 103 hectares of government land at an estimated cost of ₹542.14 crore
The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has approved plans for a Desert Zoological Park and Night Safari in Deesa, Gujarat's Banaskantha district. The project, estimated to cost ₹542.14 crore, will be developed on 103 hectares of government land. It aims to be Asia's first drive-through night safari in a desert-themed setting.
The zoo will house around 2,700 native and exotic animals and birds representing 83 species. It will feature a day zoo and five dedicated night safari enclosures for nocturnal animals. The project will focus on conservation breeding, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, environmental education, and scientific interpretation.
Indian species to be housed include chinkara, blackbuck, Indian wild ass, Asiatic lion, leopard, and others. Foreign species from desert ecosystems like Africa and Australia, such as giraffes, kudus, kangaroos, and emus, will also be included. Additional attractions will be a reptile safari, rainforest biome, aquarium, aviary, and a butterfly park.
Visitor facilities will include an interpretation center, food court, souvenir shop, and golf cart services. The site was chosen for its expansive land area, proximity to the Banas river, and good road and railway connectivity.
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