Banaskantha12 minutes agoAuthor: Aziz Cutleriwala
Asia’s first desert-themed drive-through night safari and a world-class desert-themed zoological park proposed at Juna Deesa in Banaskantha have received approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), paving the way for one of Gujarat’s major new wildlife tourism projects.
Developed by the Gujarat Forest Department, the project will cover about 103 hectares of government land and is estimated to cost ₹542.14 crore. Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the project has been prepared in accordance with CZA guidelines.
2,700 animals across 83 species
Minister of State for Forests and Environment Pravin Mali said the modern conservation facility is planned to house around 2,700 native and exotic animals and birds representing nearly 83 species.
The project will feature a separate day zoo and five dedicated Night Safari enclosures, allowing visitors to observe nocturnal wildlife after sunset. It will also serve as a centre for conservation breeding, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, environmental education and scientific interpretation.
Indian, African and Australian wildlife
The desert ecosystem will feature natural arid landscapes and Indian species including chinkara, blackbuck, Indian wild ass, Asiatic lion, leopard, caracal, wolf, striped hyena and desert fox. A reptile safari, rainforest biome and aquarium are also planned.
African attractions will include giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, scimitar oryx, black rhinoceros, cheetahs, lions, meerkats and ostriches, while kangaroos, emus and wallabies will represent Australia’s desert wildlife.
Eco-tourism boost for North Gujarat
The site was selected for its contiguous land, natural sand dunes, proximity to the Banas River and road and railway connectivity. Planned green measures include rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment, solar energy, solid waste management, native plantations and green buffers.
Officials said the project is expected to strengthen conservation, generate employment and emerge as a flagship eco-tourism destination, complementing attractions such as Vadnagar, Ambaji and Nadabet.
