From Africa to Pune: Zebras May Soon Grace Katraj Zoo

Katraj, 20th September 2024: The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and Wildlife Research Centre in Katraj, managed by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), is taking steps to acquire zebras, aiming to enhance the zoo’s appeal to tourists.

The PMC will consult with an expert committee to evaluate the feasibility of introducing zebras to Pune following the completion of trench work. The Garden Department has submitted a proposal for zebra acquisition, which awaits the Commissioner’s approval. Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale has directed the Garden Department to finalize a decision based on the committee’s forthcoming report. The PMC has allocated approximately Rs 1.5 crore for the construction of a trench spanning 5,000 square meters, specifically designed for the zebras.

The environment in Pune has been deemed suitable for these animals, and currently, zebras are located in zoological parks across Mysore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kevadia. Their introduction in Pune is anticipated to significantly boost tourist numbers at the zoo, as there are no zebras in any zoological park within Maharashtra.

Initially, the plan involved acquiring zebras from Africa. However, a contractor who expressed interest in the tender issued by the PMC did not meet international standards, prompting a new sourcing strategy. The PMC is now preparing to bring zebras from Europe and Israel, with plans to introduce four zebras—two females and two males—each aged approximately three to four years, to the zoological park.