Govt removes hurdles in Gorewada zoo project

NAGPUR: The state government on Wednesday removed two major hurdles in the development of Gorewada international zoo. It cleared the proposal to hand over 28.37 hectare revenue department land to Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM) and also gave the go ahead for appointment of a consultant.

The proposal to hand over 28.37 hectare land surrounding Gorewada was hanging fire since September 17, 2011. Some officials feel the decision was taken in view of the assembly session at Nagpur soon.

The revenue land will be used for commercial purposes, like setting up hotels, malls and commercial complexes. The money raised from these projects will be utilized to develop the Gorewada zoo.

The government also gave a green signal to appoint project management consultant for Gorewada. TOI had reported on November 15 that development of Gorewada zoo is being delayed by citing technical reasons.

"The orders to appoint a consultant will be issued soon," said FDCM official, who attended a meeting at Mantralaya on Wednesday.

The consultant will revise master plan and give detailed design of cages and other components, and get them approved from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). He will also conduct financial feasibility study and prepare documents for PPP basis.