Mumbai: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been sent to the State Government for approval to develop a zoo based on international standards on the 120-acres of the Aarey Colony in Goregaon. Considering the growing population on western suburbs Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to create a quality tourist spot for the citizens. The zoo, which will be situated in Aarey Colony, will be constructed jointly along with the BMC, State Government and the Forest Department.
Following the modern concept the zoo will include mammals, birds and reptiles of various species. The municipal corporation has sent the draft of the MoU to the state government for approval.
The proposed zoo will be the expanded part of the Veermata Jijabai Udyan and will be of help to students and general tourists to study the rare wild life species, their conservation and environment. The zoo, which will be renting one rupee for a period of 99 years, will be developed in four to five years. The BMC will bear the responsiblity of construction, the administrative work and caretaking of animals for which the estimated cost is Rs 500 crore, according to the administration. The proposal for an MoU between the state forest department and the BMC has been sent to the administration, which will soon be tabled in the Standing Committee in BMC for approval.
A night zoo safari will be developed based on Singapore's famous Night Safari concept. Rare mammals, birds and caterpillars can also be observed in the zoo.
