State zoo in Ri-Bhoi nears completion

SHILLONG, Oct 24: The modern state zoo comping up in Ri-Bhoi district is likely to be completed by December, more than a decade after it was conceptualised.
Forest and Environment Minister, James P.K. Sangma recently inspected the work on the zoo and was satisfied with the progress.
“The zoo, once completed, will play an important role in educating people about our state’s wildlife and the need to respect, protect, rescue, and conserve wildlife species,” he said.
The Central Zoo Authority had given clearance for the zoo in Ri-Bhoi two years ago.
The Comptroller and Auditor General had earlier underlined the lack of progress of work on the zoo even after grants were released 10 years ago.
The Forest Department has no plans to touch the Lady Hydari Park, which has a mini zoo. But it could be upgraded to an eco-park because of its ecological importance and for creating more awareness among the people on the protection of the environment.
Located in the heart of Shillong, Lady Hydari Park is also known as Phan Nonglait Park.