Forest & Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak releases two adorable cubs into the zoo’s semi-open enclosure.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation, Forests and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak today released two tiger cubs, Abhay and Aryan, from intensive care into the Kraal (semi-open enclosure) at Chhatbir Zoo. The cubs, born to white tigress Gauri and yellow tiger Arjun on Diwali night (October 31, 2024, at midnight), are in good health and will be introduced to public viewing after receiving their final vaccine dose.
Marking the occasion, Minister Lal Chand also inaugurated several new facilities, including a veterinary hospital, offices for senior and junior veterinary officers, veterinary staff rooms, two laboratories, a dispensary, a research room, a pantry, and two washrooms. Additionally, a dedicated service circulation path for staff and a feed-fodder vehicle were introduced to ensure a seamless supply of food to the animal enclosures. For visitors, an 800-meter-long and 4-meter-wide pathway outside the enclosures has been constructed to enhance accessibility. The Minister also unveiled two night shelters for security personnel and the official logo of the Punjab Zoos Development Society (PZDS).
During his visit, he reviewed ongoing projects such as the wildlife safari bus parking area, a visitor shelter near the lion safari canteen, the crocodile enclosure, a parking stand for battery-operated vehicles, and a feeding platform for deer and other ungulates.
Chhatbir Zoo regularly conducts awareness initiatives to foster empathy toward wildlife, including blood donation camps, Run for Wild races, and zoo education programs. These efforts aim to instill a sense of responsibility and compassion for wild animals among children, youth, and the general public.
Prominent attendees included Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force) Dharminder Sharma, Chhatbir Zoo Field Director Neeraj Kumar, and Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Sagar Setia.