Lalitpur, Nepal – The Central Zoo, a cornerstone of biodiversity conservation and eco-friendly practices in Nepal, hosted an event to highlight its ongoing contributions to wildlife protection, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. The event brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and conservationists, underscoring the zoo's vital role in fostering environmental awareness and habitat restoration.
Director of Central Zoo Highlights Achievements
Dr. Chiran Pokhrel, Director of the Central Zoo, delivered the welcome remarks, emphasizing the zoo's far-reaching impact on environmental conservation. He noted the participation of over 500 schools and 120,000 students in eco-friendly initiatives within the Kathmandu Valley. He also highlighted the zoo's ongoing efforts in waste management and the restoration of engendered wildlife health and habitats.
Collaborative Efforts Endorsed by Conservation Leaders
The event saw active participation from key figures in conservation. Dr. Ghanashyam Gurung, Country Director of WWF Nepal, spoke about the critical need for effective management of human-wildlife conflict, the strategic use of the loss and damage fund, and partnerships in wildlife tourism to ensure sustainable development.
Khagendra Nepal, representing the Friends of Zoo Teachers Committee, lauded the zoo’s conservation efforts, further solidifying the institution's role as a hub for environmental education.
30-Year Zoo Management Agreement Renewed
The National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) secured a new 30-year management agreement for the Central Zoo, reaffirming its commitment to biodiversity conservation. Ramchandra Kandel highlighted the zoo's dual role in promoting wildlife habitation and recreation while pointing out the need to address policy gaps for enhanced efficacy.
Government Support for Conservation Goals
Dipak Kumar Kharal, Secretary of the Ministry of Forest and Environment, commended the zoo's contributions to biodiversity conservation. Minister Aain Bahadur Shahi also emphasized the government's commitment to supporting conservation initiatives through policy and funding.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
Renu Yadav, a member of Madhesi Aayog, stressed the importance of improved park area management and the need for more informational boards to educate visitors. Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan of Lalitpur Metropolitan City called the zoo "the ornament of our municipality" and highlighted ongoing projects like park development, water resource management, and a feasibility study for a night zoo concept in city area.
Inspirational Contributions from Students and Staff
The event featured a unique poem presentation by Asmita Boarding School's grade-four students titled "Our Land, Our Future," which captured the essence of environmental stewardship. Tributes were also paid to employees who have served the zoo for over 25 years, acknowledging their dedication to conservation.
Visitor Growth and Vision for the Future
Juddha Bahadur Gurung, a senior conservationist, emphasized the need to increase the zoo's annual visitors beyond the current 1.2 million, suggesting potential improvements in facilities and programs to attract more people.
The event underscored the Central Zoo's pivotal role as a hub for conservation, education, and recreation. With renewed management agreements, collaborative efforts, and community engagement, the zoo aims to expand its reach and impact, ensuring a sustainable future for Nepal's biodiversity.
For Ecosphere News, this is a testament to how collective efforts can shape a greener tomorrow.
