Chhatbir Zoo draws 3.71 lakh visitors in 8 months as Punjab steps up wildlife conservation drive
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, August 21, 2026: Punjab’s wildlife conservation and awareness efforts are drawing increasing public attention, with the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, Chhatbir, recording more than 3.71 lakh visitors in the first eight months of 2026.
Forest and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said the zoo recorded 3,71,011 visitors between January and August, describing the footfall as an encouraging sign of growing public interest in wildlife and conservation.
“The response from the public has been extremely encouraging,” Kataruchak said, adding that the Punjab Government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, had been working to sensitise people about the importance of protecting and preserving wildlife.
March records highest footfall
According to figures shared by the minister, Chhatbir Zoo recorded 48,719 visitors in January, followed by 54,216 in February and a peak of 66,377 visitors in March.
The zoo recorded 40,168 visitors in April, 33,134 in May, 71,928 in June, 35,980 in July and 20,489 in August.
The figures show that visitor numbers fluctuated significantly during the period, with June recording the highest monthly footfall at 71,928 visitors, followed by March.
Walk-in aviary, dinosaur park among attractions
Kataruchak said the government had undertaken several initiatives at Chhatbir Zoo with a focus on combining wildlife conservation with education and visitor engagement.
Among the major attractions is the country’s biggest and longest walk-in aviary, which has emerged as a prominent attraction for visitors.
An ultra-modern dinosaur park has also been established at the zoo to enhance the educational and recreational experience for visitors, particularly children and families.
The minister said such facilities were intended to create greater awareness about wildlife while making visits more engaging and educational.
The rising footfall at Chhatbir Zoo, the government said, reflects the growing public engagement with wildlife and conservation and forms part of Punjab’s broader efforts to promote awareness about protecting its natural heritage.