The Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo in Byculla, popularly known as Rani Baug, is a top tourist destination in Mumbai. | BL Soni
Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo in Byculla will soon feature a dedicated reptile house, showcasing 14 species of snakes to attract tourists. Currently, the zoo houses 4-5 species of snakes under quarantine due to the lack of a designated exhibit for them. The design and cost estimates for the exhibit are expected to be finalised within the next 15 days.
The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) recently approved the BMC’s proposal to construct a new reptile house at Byculla Zoo. The reptile house will be set up on approximately 500 square meters of space opposite the hippo exhibit and will house species such as the trinket snake, Indian cobra, Indian rock python, and striped keelback. This new addition is expected to be a major attraction at the zoo, which already features popular exhibits like penguins and tigers, according to zoo officials.
Dr. Sanjay Tripathy, Director of Byculla zoo said, “We took a review meeting with consultant on Friday. The design and cost of the reptile house is expected to be ready in next 15 days.” As per standard norms the large species of snakes required 80sq mt of area while the small ones takes 40 sq mt space. Sources said the facility will also have the latest technology in terms of temperature and humidity control to keep the species in the most natural conditions, including creating conducive conditions for breeding too.
Meanwhile, the number of visitors and revenue collection at Byculla Zoo declined in 2024 compared to the previous two years. In 2024, the zoo recorded 24.2 lakh visitors and generated Rs 9.5 crore in revenue, down from 30.2 lakh visitors and Rs 12 crore in revenue in 2023. In 2022, the zoo saw 25.2 lakh visitors and earned Rs 10 crore in revenue.
