First stage of Pinnawala zoo ready by October

Priyanka KURUGALA

The first stage of construction of the country’s second zoological gardens adjoining the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage will be completed by October according to a spokesman for the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council.

This segment of the zoo will be used to house Sri Lanka’s endemic animals. The first stage covers nearly 45 acres. The length of the internal road systems within the zoo is 2.5km.

Animal dens, water tanks to supply water to animals, officers’ quarters and cafeteria have already been completed at a cost of Rs 205 million. The capacity of the water tank is 400,000 gallons. The Pinnawala elephant orphanage is one of the most prominent tourist attractions among four other animal habitats in the country.

According to former Sabaragamuwa Chief Minister Mahipala Herath, establishing a zoological garden in Pinnawala will draw a large amount of visitors to Kegalle boosting the local economy. Infrastructure facilities will also be developed in Rambukkana town bringing with it direct and indirect employment opportunities to the youth of the area.

Also from funds provided by Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa the road running to Rambukkana off the Colombo - Kandy road had been carpeted. In addition to that, the road from Kurunegala to Rambukkana and the Mawanella-Rambukkana - Pinnawala road leading to the proposed zoological garden also will be carpeted.