Mumbai: While Byculla Zoo experienced a steady flow of visitors during the summer break, particularly in May, this year’s footfall of 2.96 lakh was slightly lower than last year’s 3.17 lakh. However, despite the marginal decline in visitors, the zoo generated marginally higher revenue of Rs 9.23 lakh compared to Rs 1.12 crore in May 2024.
Post-pandemic, the zoo saw a significant surge in footfall, peaking in May 2023 with a record-breaking 4.5 lakh visitors. Since then, attendance has gradually declined, largely due to the absence of new attractions.
In 2024, the total number of visitors dropped to 24.2 lakh, down from 30.2 lakh in 2023, resulting in ticket revenue of Rs 9.5 crore a nearly 25% decrease from the Rs 12 crore earned the previous year.
This year, April saw a modest rise in attendance with 2.39 lakh visitors, compared to 2.19 lakh in April 2024. However, May’s figures reflect a slight downturn.
“Two years ago, the birth of penguin chicks and the launch of the underwater viewing gallery for gharials and crocodiles were major crowd-pullers,” said a civic official.
“In 2022, the addition of a pair of exotic leopards also drew attention. Visitors expect something new with every visit. We’ve been trying to bring in a pair of lions for the past two years, but we're still awaiting a response," he added.
Month....Visitors ....revenue
2024 April ....2,19,604....86,64,430
2024...May ....3,17,352....1,22,76,965
2025...April ....2,39,003....93,06,670
2025...May ....2,96,638.... 1,13,53,280
