Pune’s Katraj Zoo Introduces Summer Upgrades for Visitors Amid Rising Heat and Footfall
As summer vacations approach, the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and Wildlife Research Center in Katraj, Pune, has rolled out new facilities to enhance visitor comfort during the scorching heat. With daily footfall ranging between 4,000 and 18,000—and even higher on weekends—the zoo has extended its working hours by 30 minutes, now operating from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Beat the Heat with Enhanced Amenities
To ensure a pleasant experience, the zoo has introduced:
- Battery-operated cars for easy mobility
- Drinking water stations and toilet blocks
- Resting sheds and seating areas across the premises
- Free Wi-Fi at key locations
Dr. Rajkumar V Jadhav, Zoo Director, noted that summer holidays (April–June) see a significant surge in visitors, especially families with children. Dr. Suchitra Suryavanshi Patil, Deputy Director, added, “We organize monthly wildlife conservation workshops and special events like Tiger Day and Elephant Day to educate young visitors.”
Animal Adoption and Future Expansion
The zoo’s animal adoption program allows individuals to sponsor animals—from elephants to crocodiles—for a day up to a year. Post-pandemic, Dr. Jadhav observed increased empathy among visitors and a rise in adoptions.
Under a 20-year master plan, the zoo is expanding with new enclosures and species, including the Hamadryas Baboon from Mysore Zoo and Mouse Deer from Guwahati Zoo. Additionally, the facility enforces a strict no-plastic policy, offering alternatives or a refundable deposit system.
