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This is an archive article published on May 9, 2023
Byculla Zoo opens underwater viewing gallery of reptiles
According to officials, Ranibaug sees an increased footfall in May.
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Visitors at the newly opened enclosure at the Byculla Zoo in Mumbai Monday. (Express Photo by Ganesh Shirsekar)
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Byculla Zoo opens underwater viewing gallery of reptiles
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The Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan, popularly known as Ranibaugh (Byculla Zoo) opened an underwater viewing gallery of crocodiles and gharials (fish-eating crocodile), which, according to zoo officials is India’s first.
Named the ‘Croc Trail’, the new facility also has an elevated platform through which visitors can view the reptiles. The underwater gallery is below the ground level, similar to aquariums. Earlier, the zoo did not have dedicated space for crocodiles and gharials.
The enclosure is spread across 1,500 square metres and imitates the natural habitat of reptiles, comprising natural vegetation spread over a swampy surface. A transparent glass window around the perimeter provides an unhindered view to visitors. The authorities has also set up ozonation filters within the gallery to prevent the formation of algae in the water.
On May 7, three crocodiles and two gharials were released inside the enclosure. The new enclosure was opened to public at this time in view of summer vacations in schools. According to officials, Ranibaug sees an increased footfall in May.
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