The zoo, according to the Centre, is the best in conserving species outside their natural habitat.
What’s it about? The Union ministry of environment conducted the management effectiveness evaluation (MEE) test for various zoos. The results are in, and Vandalur Zoo scored 82% on capacity and efficiency for conserving species outside their natural habitat. It’s the first time the zoo has got this rating.
- The parameters measured included maintaining the landscape, having a master plan for breeding, conservation, visitors, and disaster management.
- Each zoo was given six elements that included planning, costs, and input. For each criterion, questions were submitted by the ministry, and marks were awarded based on the zoo’s answers.
Work to do: Despite the high ranking, the MEE report provided recommendations. Among them are setting up a health advisory committee, switching to renewable energy, and rainwater harvesting. The report also said the zoo could have a programme to release animals back into the wild.