Lucknow to get new zoo, old ones to be renovated

The state capital would get a new zoo while the existing ones in Lucknow and Kanpur would be renovated and modernised, Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav announced today.

Speaking at a function to mark the Wildlife Week - celebrated in the first week of October every year in the state — the CM stressed the need to conserve the forests and wildlife of the state. Contrasting it with the memorials and parks set up by the Mayawati government, the CM said, "They (BSP) were attached to stone and statues while Samajwadi (party) is attached to plants, trees, and animals." The CM also urged officials to work with dedication to increase the green cover in the state. "The green cover in the state is 9.01 per cent and we wish to increase it to 33 per cent," said Rupak De, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF - Wildlife), UP. A new toy train to replace the old one at Lucknow zoo was also announced by the CM.

Minister of State for Zoological Gardens, Shiv Pratap Yadav, also present on the occasion, announced the establishment of green belts in all districts of the state and Rs 10 crore assistance for protection of forests in sensitive districts. Rs 11 crore would be provided for the establishment of green belts. "This is the first time funds have been dedicated for setting up green belts in all the districts of the state," De said.

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