Durgesh Aranya: India's First Green-Certified Zoo

Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, will become India's first zoo certified by the Indian Green Building Council for its eco-friendly initiatives. The park emphasizes sustainability in tourism, covering 25 hectares with 34 animal enclosures, and promises a unique wildlife experience.

The Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park in Kangra district is set to become India's pioneering green-certified zoo, according to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The certification from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) marks a significant milestone in sustainable tourism.

Registered with IGBC, the park aims for both building and landscape certifications, validating its commitment to high environmental standards. CM Sukhu emphasized that the venture serves as a model for blending conservation with modern innovation.

The project, with a budget of Rs 619 crore, plans to enhance tourism in Kangra and nearby districts. Once completed in 2025, it will feature 34 approved animal enclosures, housing 73 species, and unique attractions like a nocturnal house for cat species and a wetland aviary.