KOZHIKODE: Keralam’s ambitious venture to establish its first-ever biological park at Peruvannamuzhi in Kozhikode has hit a severe roadblock following fund shortages. Envisioned under a broader biological park framework at an estimated overall cost of Rs 290 crore, the project was designed to span 120 hectares of estate land acquired by the forest department from the Perambra Plantation Corporation in Muthukad.
The master plan featured a vast, securely fenced enclosure where tourists could experience wildlife safaris aboard armored vehicles, all while meticulously preserving the natural migratory corridors used by elephants and other wildlife moving toward the Peruvannamuzhi reservoir.
The initiative has now plunged into deep uncertainty due to a drastic fund crunch. While the previous LDF government had earmarked Rs 5 crore in its state budget for initial development and operational activities, the current fund allocation went down to a mere Rs 25 lakh. This nominal amount falls critically short of completing the first phase, which carries an estimated total construction budget of around Rs 16 crore.
Gurgaon-based Jain and Associates Consultancy had already completed the detailed project report (DPR) for this opening stage, securing high-power committee approval.
Planned across four hectares near the entrance, the initial phase prioritizes foundational infrastructure. This includes a bio-resource park, entrance gate, vehicle parking, ticket counters, cafeteria, administrative offices, and visitor accommodations. The tiger safari itself, along with a veterinary hospital and animal rescue center, was slated for full execution in the second phase.
Phase II DPR frozen
With primary funding stalled, preparations for the second phase’s DPR have been frozen. Kozhikode divisional forest officials stated that the department has formally petitioned the government for additional funds
