July 27, 2025

In Kolkata, the citizens' forum known as Save Wild Animals of Zoo and Our Nature (Swazon) has recently spotlighted significant discrepancies in the inventory reports of Alipore Zoo. The forum raised alarms regarding the drastic differences in the number of animals recorded for the years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. This issue has prompted an investigation by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and the West Bengal Forest Department. Alipore Zoo, one of the oldest zoological parks in India, plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and education. It has long been a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. However, the integrity of its records is essential for effective animal management, conservation efforts, and public trust. The discrepancies outlined by Swazon raise questions about transparency and accountability in how the zoo is managed. The concern primarily revolves around the number of animals reported in various species within the zoo. Swazon claims to have identified significant variances between reports that should ideally match or remain consistent over such short periods. A diligent and accurate record is vital for maintaining animal welfare standards, planning breeding programs, and ensuring that the zoo meets international accreditation requirements. As public sentiment grows regarding wildlife preservation, any suspected negligence, mismanagement, or discrepancies in animal counts can have severe implications. They not only undermine the zoo's credibility but also its conservation efforts. The CZA will be examining both the zoo's inventory reports and the procedures in place for keeping them accurate. They aim to identify whether these discrepancies are due to administrative errors, lack of proper protocols, or something more concerning. Zoo officials have acknowledged the discrepancies and are expected to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation. They have also stated that they will review their internal processes to ensure stricter compliance and better record-keeping methods moving forward. Transparency will be key in restoring public confidence in the zoo’s operations. As part of the investigation, the CZA may implement measures to monitor the zoo more closely, ensuring that animals are accounted for correctly and that their habitats are safeguarded. This situation sheds light on the broader implications of wildlife maintenance in urban settings where human encroachment often leads to a need for more ecological awareness. The discrepancies have intensified discussions surrounding wildlife management in urban environments. With increasing urbanization, many cities face similar challenges regarding wildlife in captivity. Thus, a proactive stance on animal conservation, including reliable reporting and management practices, is critical for safeguarding wildlife. In response to the forum's concerns, various stakeholders, including animal rights groups, may come together to advocate for better standards in wildlife management throughout urban zoos in India. This scenario reminds the public of the importance of vigilance and advocacy in ensuring such institutions operate with full accountability and in the interest of animal welfare. The future of Alipore Zoo hinges on its ability to address these discrepancies transparently while adhering to best practices in animal management. For the sake of wildlife conservation in India, and to foster healthy public interest and involvement, it is imperative that such institutions gain and maintain trust through consistency and reliability in their operations. As the investigation unfolds, officials and citizens alike will be watching closely to see how the zoo adapts to these challenges, aiming for a more sustainable and responsible approach to wildlife conservation.

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Tags: Kolkata, Zoo, Wildlife, Animal count, Conservation,