SHILLONG: In response to public concerns regarding the upcoming inauguration of the Meghalaya State Zoo and the proposed transfer of Hoolock Gibbons, the government has issued a comprehensive clarification.
In a statement issued on Friday, the government has highlighted that the Meghalaya State Zoo, located at Umtrew, has received recognition from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and is nearing completion of essential infrastructure.
Addressing the operationalisation of the zoo, officials assured that once staffing and management structures are fully established, the zoo will commence operations.
“That is how we are able to shift animals of the Phan Nonglait Park to the new Zoo. Once the complete structure of manpower/management of the new Zoo is in place, it will be made functional,” read the statement.
Regarding the proposed transfer of Hoolock Gibbons from the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre in Tura to zoo, the government clarified a few critical points.
They highlighted that the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre, while operational for a significant period, lacks CZA approval and is not recognised as a natural forest habitat.
“Moreover, as the animals have been in those conditions in the rescue centre and under human care for long time, they cannot be successfully rehabilitated and reintroduced into their natural forest habitat,” it clarified.
Contrary to misconceptions, the government affirmed that the animals at the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre are not in their natural habitat and are housed in facilities not meeting CZA standards.
The Central Zoo Authority has proposed relocating these Gibbons to recognised zoos with appropriate housing facilities compliant with CZA guidelines.
The State Government underscored the CZA’s role as the apex body mandated to ensure zoos nationwide adhere to international standards and comply with the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.
“The proposed transfer of Hoolock Gibbons, classified as Schedule-I animal under the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, is being undertaken as per directives from the CZA to provide them with the highest standards of upkeep and care as per Rules,” the statement read.
Moreover, the establishment of the Meghalaya State Zoo has been meticulously planned according to CZA specifications.
All animal enclosures have been designed to meet CZA-approved standards, ensuring a suitable environment for the long-term welfare of the relocated Gibbons.
In a recent development, the Nokma of Silchotchigre has revoked permission granted to the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre, urging the government to take necessary actions, as communicated in a letter dated June 14, addressed to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.
The government affirmed its unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation, both in-situ and ex-situ, under stringent regulatory frameworks mandated by the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, within the state of Meghalaya.
This clarification aims to address community concerns while reaffirming the government’s dedication to preserving biodiversity and ensuring the welfare of wildlife across Meghalaya.
