A dedicated reptile house featuring 14 snake species is set to be introduced at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo in Byculla. Approval for the project has already been granted by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), and plans for its design and cost estimation are expected to be finalized within two weeks. This initiative is being taken to enhance the zoo’s attractions and increase footfall, which has declined in recent years.
The reptile house will be built over a 500-square-meter area near the hippo exhibit. Among the species to be displayed are the Indian cobra, Indian rock python, striped keelback, and trinket snake. Zoo officials have expressed optimism that the new facility will complement the zoo's existing attractions, including the popular penguin and tiger exhibits. The enclosure will be designed to replicate natural conditions, with advanced temperature and humidity controls installed to ensure the comfort and breeding of the snakes. Separate enclosures of 80 square meters for large species and 40 square meters for smaller species have been planned as per standard guidelines.
The decision to expand the zoo’s offerings comes at a time when visitor numbers and revenue have declined. It was recorded that 24.2 lakh visitors were hosted by the zoo in 2024, generating ₹9.5 crore in revenue. This marked a decrease from the 30.2 lakh visitors and ₹12 crore earned in 2023. In 2022, visitor numbers were noted to be slightly higher at 25.2 lakh, with revenue amounting to ₹10 crore. In addition to the new reptile house, dietary changes for carnivorous animals have been implemented by zoo authorities as a precaution against Avian Influenza. Buffalo meat has been made the sole dietary option, while chicken has been removed following the deaths of tigers and leopards in a Nagpur zoo due to the flu. Tigers, leopards, hyenas, and foxes are among the animals whose diets have been modified.
The safety of these animals is being prioritized, with protocols such as the mandatory use of masks and gloves by staff while handling animals. Measures including the sanitization of enclosures, the use of footbaths for cleaning footwear, and disinfection of the premises are being strictly enforced. It has been ensured that the health of all carnivorous animals remains stable, with no signs of illness reported.