The current zoo Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan-Zoo clearly reflects the British heritage of the original Vicotria Garden as well as the Victorian approach of collecting animals the creation of the menagerie. This growth over time has resulted in a zoo that currently has many small old styled enclosures and some renovated larger enclosures such as the Asian Elephant exhibit, Himalayan Black Bear exhibit and a large birds aivary. Many of the small enclosures, of old designs, and even some of the renovated larger exhibits lack animal related facilities such as adequate furniture and enrichment devices.

Another outcome of the zoo's history is that there a group of "heritage structures" that must be utilized, either in place or moved if necessary. These include a number of buildings, the sculptures and statues.

The condidtion and capacity of the infrastructure is still under study, however, it is clear that many of the heritage structures are not suitable for reuse. We realise that there may be an interest in saving what might appear valuable because it is newer or is of interest to a specific group. However, for the elements of future master plan to work properly together decisions will need to be made consistently and collectively.

The genreal ambience of the zoo and gardens is excellent with abundant flora. Many large and some very rare trees found within zoo grounds gives the zoo very big advantage over many other zoos. The zoos also has a dedicated staffs who are interested in the welfare of the animals.

New Zoo Concept

Mission: To engender a respect for wildlife and inspire conservation action

Theme Dynamic Earth:

"India, Africa, Australia and Antartica were once one. As these continenets moved apat life evovled differently -- at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan-Zoo you can see the differences".
Building on the history of over 130 years as a city zoo and garden, this new zoo will meet world standard for animal care, protection, environmental educational; it will be a memorable visitor experience.

Strategic intent

Animal Welfare and Husbandry: The VJB Udyan-Zoo will ensure both physical as well as psycholocial well being of the animal collection by further advancing best practice animal husbandry.

Conservation: The VJB Udyan-Zoo will focus its resources on securing species and habitats of sustainable populations through various integrated programs and animal exchange programs with other zoological organizations.

Education: The VJB Udyan-Zoo will provide exemplary learning opportunities that will positively inspire people to care about and understand animals as well as the threats these animals face in the wild.

Recreation: The VJB Udyan-Zoo will provide unique flora and fauna as well as cultural experiences that will be a memorable visitor experience.

Research: The VJB Udyan-Zoo will become an acknowledge and credible resource for the local, the national as well as the international wildlife research community while significantly contributing towards the field of conservation, breeding and medicine.

Sustainability: The VJB Udyan-Zoo will promote sustaibable practices in all it's zoo's operations.