Kevadia, Aug 26 (IANS): Kevadia, known for housing the Statue of Unity, is all set to welcome a thrilling addition to its attractions -- a new jungle safari that promises an intimate encounter with the wild.
This upcoming safari, sprawled across the lush valleys of the Satpura and Vindhyachal hill ranges, will offer visitors a firsthand view of two majestic carnivores, the Asiatic lions and tigers.
Stretching over an expansive area of 375 acres, this wildlife haven is poised to double the size of the existing safari near the renowned Statue of Unity.
Adding to the allure, the safari will also feature a geodesic dome aviary, making it an immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists alike. It is situated near Nagatpuri Kothi village, 10 km away from Kevadiya.
The project is being crafted under the watchful gaze of the forest department, which has enlisted the expertise of the Greens Zoological Rescue And Rehabilitation Kingdom.
Drawing inspiration from the successful Devaliya open zoo model in Gir, the upcoming safari aims to create an environment where both lions and tigers can roam freely in their natural habitats.
Visitors will have the opportunity to choose between a bus ride or an open jeep excursion, allowing them to observe these magnificent creatures up close while respecting their habitats.
The wildlife exchange program is a notable feature of this venture, enhancing the diversity of the safari. As part of this program, two pairs of tigers will be brought to the new safari from other zoos, in exchange for lions.
The blueprint for the lions includes the relocation of two pairs, accompanied by four cubs, from Sakkarbaug Zoo. Behind the scenes, meticulous planning is taking place.
Upon securing the required land, the forest department will draft a comprehensive proposal to be submitted to the Central Zoo Authority of India. Approximately 700 acres of land are earmarked for the safari's development, with officials from the Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Governance Authority (SoUADTGA) confirming the ongoing efforts in land acquisition.