State minister makes surprise nat’l zoo visit to unearth mismanagement

State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku on Friday made an unannounced visit to the national zoo in the city for an overall inspection, including identifying mismanagement on the ground amid huge rush of visitors.
The minister directed the zoo authorities to take necessary measures to reclaim the illegally occupied about seven acres of land.
From the capital and surrounding districts, the zoo in Mirpur was crowded with thousands of visitors as people continued to enjoy their Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in the city.
Starting from the entrance, there was an overflowing crowd in various exhibition areas. The entire area became festive with the presence of families and children.
During his stay of about two hours, the state minister inspected the cages of various animals, the animal treatment center and the medicine storage.
He checked the quality and quantity of the animals' food. He also spoke to the concerned officials and employees and inquired about the food, health management and overall care of the animals, according to a media release of the ministry.
The main purpose of the visit was to see the environment, management and any kind of defects of the zoo on the spot. During this time, he also spoke to the visitors and wanted to know about their problems and expectations.
At the same time, he immediately instructed the concerned to increase public toilets, expand the seating area for visitors, repair roads, ensure cleanliness and increase the number of animals.
He said that visible development work should be started within the current budget.
Regarding the surprise visit, the state minister said that he came suddenly to see if there was any kind of mismanagement in the zoo.
"I came here without informing anyone, so that the real situation can be understood. Instructions have been given to improve cleanliness, seating arrangements and facilities for visitors. There are also plans to bring some new animals," he added.
He also said that although the food supply to the animals is satisfactory, the visitors expect a better environment. "Necessary measures will be taken accordingly."
Noting that the zoo needs to be managed in a more organised manner, he remarked that it is a promising project. If proper planning and implementation can be ensured, it can be turned into a profitable and visitor-friendly institution, he added.

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