MR Palayam reserve forest to be made into zoo

The M R Palayam Reserve Forest (RF) that is located along the Trichy - Chennai highway may soon be converted into a zoological park once the government gives its approval.

According to forest officials, a study was conducted by the public works department (PWD) on the availability of water in the locality, which has been sent to the government.

With ample number of deer population in the region, a deer park would be setup first while other animals will follow in accordance, the officials said.
A wildlife survey census was already conducted and it was found that the place had enough mammal density for establishing a zoo zone.

Spread over 215 acres with abundant forest reserve, a considerable amount of deer population is found in the locality.

Senior officials from the forest department said that after consent from the government, the entire place will be converted into a zoo.

The project will cost a total of Rs 2 crore and fences are already erected to mark the enclosure.

The proposed zoo will attract about 500 animals from across the districts including spotted deer, hyena and Indian gaur, fox and reptiles. Many other facilities are also being proposed for the public.

The project that has been pending for long is being taken up again for completion this time, said the forest officials.