Minister pushes for timely upgrades at Lahore Zoo and Safari Park

LAHORE: In a recent development, Provincial Minister for Planning and Development, Bilal Afzal, presided over a crucial meeting at the Planning and Development (P&D) Board to review the advancement of key development projects at Lahore Zoo and Safari Park.

The session, convened at the P&D Board, saw the presence of Chairman P&D Board, Iftikhar Ali Sahu, DG Wildlife, Mubeen Elahi, along with board members and other officials.

Minister Bilal Afzal underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to overcoming challenges impeding the implementation of the master plan aimed at revitalising Lahore Zoo and Safari Park.

Identifying obstacles to project completion, he stressed the urgency of meeting the January 31 deadline set by the Punjab Chief Minister, ensuring the timely delivery of top-notch entertainment facilities for citizens.

In a bid to ensure the quality and timely execution of the projects, the minister directed the formulation of a daily work plan with regular target reviews.

He insisted on maintaining high construction standards and mandated the finalisation of the international procurement plan for animals, emphasising the importance of cost-effectiveness.

Minister Bilal Afzal also announced the recruitment of international consultants to facilitate the acquisition of large animals at a minimal cost from foreign countries. He urged swift progress in completing the Safari Park and its outer wall.

Chairman of the P&D Board, Iftikhar Ali Sahu, disclosed that the establishment of a technical committee, comprising experts from NESPAK, C&W, and other relevant departments, would play a pivotal role in ensuring the timely completion of Lahore Zoo and Safari Park.

Providing insights into the ongoing projects, DG Wildlife Mubeen Elahi briefed the participants on various aspects, including design, technical, and financial proposals.

The session covered topics such as local and international animal procurement, civil works, holograms, e-ticket systems, and sculptures, shedding light on the comprehensive efforts underway for the enhancement of Lahore Zoo and Safari Park.

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This strategic meeting reflects the government’s determination to deliver world-class facilities within the stipulated timeline.

The concerted efforts and focus on overcoming obstacles demonstrate a commitment to providing citizens with an exceptional entertainment experience.

The involvement of international consultants in the procurement process highlights a proactive approach to securing diverse wildlife at optimal costs.

With the formation of a technical committee and regular target reviews, the project is poised for success. The comprehensive briefing by DG Wildlife Mubeen Elahi underscores the meticulous planning and execution involved in the ongoing projects.

As the development initiatives for Lahore Zoo and Safari Park progress, the government’s vision for a modernised and globally competitive wildlife attraction becomes increasingly tangible.

The emphasis on quality, efficiency, and international collaboration sets a promising trajectory for these iconic projects, promising an enriched experience for the public in the near future.