The Nehru Zoological Park here will celebrate its 50th anniversary, ‘Zootsav’ from Oct 6-14. “As part of the golden jubilee celebrations, children below 12 years will have free entry during these days,” AV Jospeh, principal chief conservator of forests (chief warden) Andhra Pradesh, said here on Monday.
Chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy will participate in the inaugural ceremony and unveil Nehru statue and golden jubilee pylon. Enclosures for squirrels, monkeys and swans will be opened on the occasion.
“The zoo has grown leaps and bounds over the last 50 years since its inception in 1963 with the addition of new species and facilities for animals. The establishment of Lion Safari Park in 1974, the Nocturnal Animal House in 1982, Open Butterfly Park in 1998, and the Pre-historic Animal Park were the major milestones in the history of the zoo,” Jospeh said .
Several competitions have been planned for children such as quiz, photography, and others. Governor ESL Narasimhan will participate in the valedictory function on October 14 and will give away prizes to the winners of the competitions.