BMC blames zoo authority, heritage panel for neglect

While the task of removing debris from the Veermata Jijabai Udyan, popularly called as Byculla zoo is to start from today, the civic Standing Committee Chairman, Rahul Shewale has blamed the sorry state of the animals on the non- cooperation of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee ( MHCC). It's chiefly because the MHCC has not yet given the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) the required NOC to begin renovation work, alleged Shevale.

" Also, while the Heritage Committee have always made suggestions regarding saving the trees and plantation, there are no observations made about how the lack of NOC is taking a toll on animals lodged in the zoo," added Shewale, even as he confirmed having directed officials to clear all the debris.

The Byculla zoo houses 175 mammals of 18 different species, 34 reptiles across seven species and 495 birds of 38 species.

Elaborating on the restrictions the BMC faced in the zoo's maintenance, Shevale said, " Then there is a High Court order that has put a stop to deer breeding in the zoo. It is one of the reason why the deer here are falling sick." Further, bickering among other government agencies too has left little for the civic administration to ensure complete maintenance and take immediate measures to fix problems.

" Action will be taken against the people behind the dumping of construction debris from the Dadar swimming pool," added Shewale.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation ( BMC) has undertaken the project of makeover of the zoo since last three years, however, the works is to commence as MHCC is yet to give NOC. The bone of contention is to revamp the place with giving equal weight to zoo and botanical garden.

Last week, Shewale had visited the zoo after Jassi, a seven- year- old hippopotamus had died due to respiratory infection. The condition of the animals in the zoo was appalling state, with 200 trucks of debris lying around the zoo.

In April last, the zoo had also lost a five- year- old hippo, Shakti, who reportedly died due to cardiac failure.

Animal activists have been making several complaints about lack of proper treatment and maintenance of the zoo. However, officials assured that adequate care has been taken to ensure proper maintenance and care of the zoo.