Jambu Zoo spread over a vast area of 70 hectares at present, a newly inaugurated attraction in Jammu, has garnered attention and footfall despite encountering a few initial hurdles. The zoo has witnessed a steady flow of visitors, including tourists and pilgrims visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. This positive response aligns with the intended purpose of the Jambu Zoo project, which aimed to attract diverse audiences. While there have been some shortcomings during its initial phase, the potential for improvement and expansion is evident. Jambu Zoo’s opening during the peak summer season presented some initial challenges. The limited number of operational e-rickshaws for transportation within the zoo area caused inconvenience to visitors, leading to occasional breakdowns. This issue demands urgent attention to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for guests. Another significant challenge is the scarcity of animals, which hinders the fulfillment of the zoo’s objectives. Zoos serve as educational and recreational platforms while promoting conservation efforts and animal welfare. However, without a diverse and sufficient animal population, achieving these goals becomes difficult. Visitors expect to encounter a wide variety of species, and the current limitations may result in decreased interest, leading to fewer visitors and potential financial implications for the zoo. Despite the initial challenges, Jambu Zoo holds immense potential for improvement and expansion. The zoo authorities must proactively address the concerns raised by visitors and take prompt remedial actions. Moreover, the introduction of major attractions like Asiatic Lions, Bengal Tigers, Ghariyals, Sloth Bears, and Marsh Crocodiles in the coming months can enhance the zoo’s appeal. These additions will not only captivate visitors but also contribute to the zoo’s educational and conservation objectives. Additionally, it is crucial for the zoo authorities to focus on the well-being and welfare of the animals. Enclosures should be designed to mimic natural habitats, ensuring the comfort and happiness of the animals. Emphasizing conservation efforts and promoting breeding programs for endangered species will further enhance the zoo’s significance. Collaborations with other reputable zoos and wildlife organizations can facilitate knowledge sharing, exchange of animals, and research partnerships, elevating Jambu Zoo’s stature within the conservation community. The growth and prosperity of Jambu Zoo depend on the cooperation of many stakeholders. To overcome the first obstacles and guarantee the zoo’s long-term sustainability, the government, zoo officials, local people, and conservation organizations must collaborate. Transparent channels of contact should be established to encourage visitor feedback and enable prompt action to resolve issues and suggestions. For the zoo to succeed, its financial stability is essential. Partnerships with corporate sponsors, tourism boards, and wildlife conservation funds, in addition to visitor fees, could help the zoo raise money for development and upkeep. These partnerships may also provide knowledge and direction to enhance Jambu Zoo’s general administration and operations. Furthermore, community engagement is vital to the success of any zoo. Local residents should be actively involved in the zoo’s initiatives, with educational programs, workshops, and outreach activities conducted to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats. Such initiatives can foster a sense of pride and ownership among the local community, making them enthusiastic advocates for the zoo’s growth and sustainability.
Jambu Zoo holds tremendous promise as a prominent attraction in Jammu, contributing to tourism, wildlife conservation, and economic growth. While it faces some initial challenges, these hurdles can be overcome through proactive measures and collective efforts. By addressing transportation limitations, expanding the animal population, and ensuring financial sustainability, Jambu Zoo can evolve into a thriving sanctuary that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. The authorities must seize this opportunity to realize the full potential of Jambu Zoo. With effective management, continuous improvement, and a focus on visitor satisfaction, the zoo can emerge as a beacon of wildlife conservation, education, and entertainment. By nurturing this promising attraction, Jammu can secure its position on the global tourism map while preserving its rich natural heritage for generations to come. The authorities must also prioritize the acquisition and introduction of a wider range of wildlife species to enhance visitor interest and engagement. Financial sustainability is another critical aspect that requires attention. A decrease in visitor interest due to limited animal variety may impact the number of visitors, affecting the zoo’s revenue. To counter this, strategies such as targeted marketing campaigns, discounted ticket prices during off-peak seasons, more sitting arrangements & water bodies, dense plantations, and collaboration with travel agencies can be employed to attract a larger audience and ensure the financial viability of Jambu Zoo.