WILDLIFE REVITALIZATION IN JAMMU

The Wildlife Department of Jammu and Kashmir has initiated a comprehensive and ambitious strategy to improve the region’s natural attractions. This strategy includes the revitalization of Gharana Wetland and the expansion of Jambu Zoo. In addition to promoting local eco-tourism, this initiative also seeks to increase community engagement and raise awareness about wildlife conservation. The initiatives to introduce new animal species to Jambu Zoo and enhance utilities at Gharana Wetland are indicative of a more comprehensive vision that envisions the integration of nature conservation, economic development, and public education. Ultimately, these sites will be transformed into essential resources for both residents and visitors.

As the Wildlife Department prepares to complete ten new enclosures by the end of December this year, Jambu Zoo, which is located on the outskirts of Jammu City in Nagrota, is set to endure a significant transformation. This expansion is not merely a logistical improvement; it is a strategic enhancement that is designed to improve the visitor experience and encourage biodiversity. The yellow-throated marten, hyena, wolf, jackal, ostrich, emu, hippopotamus, and barking deer are among the new species that are expected to inhabit these enclosures. The introduction of these animals is anticipated to attract a greater number of visitors, thereby offering an educational experience that emphasizes the significance of conservation efforts and the diverse fauna of India. It is anticipated that the allure of such a diverse collection of species will attract not only local families but also tourists from outside the region, thereby contributing to the local economy. Currently, the Jambu Zoo spans an impressive 163 hectares and is home to 18 wild animal enclosures. By the end of the year, the number of enclosures is expected to increase to 28. The Wildlife Department’s acknowledgment of the massive public interest in wildlife tourism and conservation is evident in this strategic expansion of capacity. Fostering a sense of responsibility toward the environment and fauna becomes increasingly critical as the zoo continues to develop. By offering educational and engaging experiences, the zoo is a crucial platform for promoting awareness of the importance of biodiversity in the preservation of healthy ecosystems and endangered species. Visitor statistics indicate a promising trend; on average, Jambu Zoo attracts around 10,000 visitors each month during the summer season, with numbers increasing to 20,000 to 25,000 in the winter months. Since its inauguration, over three lakh people have visited the zoo, underscoring its popularity as a destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. This substantial footfall is an indicator of the zoo’s potential to become a key player in the region’s eco-tourism sector. However, the continued success of Jambu Zoo hinges on the successful implementation of the planned enhancements, ensuring that the new enclosures and animal species meet the expectations of visitors and contribute positively to the zoo’s ecological goals. Simultaneously, the Wildlife Department is making concerted efforts to improve Gharana Wetland, located near the international border with Pakistan in the R.S. Pura area. This site has immense ecological significance, particularly as a habitat for migratory birds. In anticipation of the migratory season, the department has made significant strides in upgrading facilities for visitors, including the installation of sitting benches, sheds, and toilets, alongside plans for a small restaurant offering top-class amenities. Such improvements not only enhance the visitor experience but also signify a commitment to making the wetland more accessible to the public, thereby encouraging greater engagement with the natural environment.

In short, the Wildlife Department’s comprehensive strategy to enhance Jammu’s natural attractions, which includes the introduction of new animal species at Jambu Zoo and the enhancement of amenities at Gharana Wetland, is a substantial stride toward the promotion of eco-tourism and community engagement. The department is establishing the foundation for economic development that is both environmentally benign and socially responsible by emphasizing sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation. The potential for Jammu and Kashmir to become a leading eco-tourism destination is becoming increasingly apparent as these initiatives emerge, promising a brighter future for its natural heritage and the communities that call it homeland. The continuous endeavours to improve Jambu Zoo and Gharana Wetland represent a transformative conservation strategy that prioritizes education, community engagement, and sustainable economic growth, thereby benefiting the environment and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.