Bengaluru: Forest, Environment and Ecology Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Monday inaugurated development projects and new facilities worth ₹38 crore at Bannerghatta Biological Park, aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation, animal welfare and visitor amenities.
The minister flagged off a fleet of electric vehicles and inaugurated several facilities, including a new administrative office named ‘Adavi’, a live-feed unit, central nursery, quarantine block, renovated main entrance, zoo shop and ‘Suvarnamukhi’ café.
New residential quarters for forest staff and enclosures for wolves, cheetahs, emus, rheas and pheasants were also unveiled.
In a tribute to veterinarian Dr Sameeksha, who died in Shivamogga while treating a hippopotamus, Reddy directed officials to name the hippopotamus enclosure and a baby hippo after her.
The minister also inaugurated an observation tower at the Suvarna Elephant Care Centre, located within the safari area and established to support elephant health, care and welfare. He later undertook a safari to review the park’s wildlife conservation and management activities.
The new facilities are expected to improve animal care infrastructure and enhance the experience of visitors.
Legislators B Shivanna and M Krishnappa, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force Ravi B P, and other forest department officials attended the programme.
