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Cabinet approval sought for private zoos

by Tharika Goonathilake

The Ministry of Forestry and Environment has sought Cabinet approval to establish private zoos in the country.

"Several proposals have been forwarded seeking approval to open new zoos in Ambepussa, Hanwella and several other areas. We are considering the move given the potential to promote tourism and bring in investments to the country," Environment and Forestry Minister Rukman Senanayake told the `Daily News' yesterday.

The Minister said that this initiative, will also help to introduce the night safari concepts which are huge tourist draws in other countries while helping to promote tourism within the provinces.

According to Minister Senanayake, both individuals and private companies have forwarded proposals, with the majority of proposals being developed on the open enclosures concept.

However, the minister said that laws will be passed to ensure that the zoos are run on high standards and every proposal will be scrutinised before being given the green light.

The new zoos will be controlled and monitored by a special authority headed by the National Zoological Gardens' Director. The authority will be given the sole responsibility of issuing licences and other permits for the operational aspects as well as importing of animals, the Minister said.

The Dehiwela National Zoological Gardens is the only approved zoo in the country. The operation of private zoos have so far been banned.

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