The Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to develop a modern leopard safari in Pilibhit district, aiming to strengthen wildlife tourism and improve conservation efforts in the region. The initiative comes in response to the growing leopard population in and around Pilibhit, which has emerged as an important wildlife habitat in the state.
During a review meeting held on Thursday, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Arun Kumar Saxena said that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the leopard safari has already been prepared. He directed officials to begin implementing the project at the earliest so that it can be completed without unnecessary delays.
According to the minister, the upcoming leopard safari is expected to become a major attraction for visitors while giving a fresh boost to Uttar Pradesh’s eco-tourism sector. He noted that the project would create new opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and further enhance the state’s tourism profile.
The review meeting covered the progress of several key wildlife destinations and conservation projects, including Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Dudhwa National Park, Etawah Lion Safari, Kanpur Zoological Park, and Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden in Lucknow. Officials discussed ongoing initiatives related to wildlife conservation, biodiversity protection, eco-tourism development, and improvements to visitor facilities.
Another important agenda item was the proposed Snake Venom Extraction Centre in Lucknow. The minister instructed officials to expedite the project, stating that it would support snakebite treatment, venom research, and public health initiatives across the state.
Senior officials, including Principal Secretary of Environment, Forest and Climate Change V. Hekali Zhimomi and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Anuradha Vemuri, attended the meeting along with other department representatives.
The minister also emphasized maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene at zoological parks and tourist destinations. He instructed authorities to regularly inspect public amenities, particularly toilets and visitor facilities, to ensure a better experience for tourists.
In addition, officials reviewed the status of various ongoing schemes focused on wildlife conservation, habitat improvement, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable tourism. The government reiterated its commitment to balancing conservation efforts with responsible tourism development across Uttar Pradesh.
