30 August,2026 08:27 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis chaired a review meeting on the ongoing development works at the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park in Nagpur, on Sunday. PIC/X
Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday chaired a review meeting in Nagpur on the ongoing development works at the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park, with a focus on developing it as a world-class wildlife tourism destination.
Fadnavis reviewed the overall development of the Gorewada project and took stock of the progress of various works. He was briefed on the status of work being undertaken to launch the African Safari, the project's progress, and the expected timeline for starting the safari.
CM Fadnavis directed officials to set definite deadlines for all ongoing works at Gorewada and accelerate their implementation accordingly.
The African Safari is a key component of the Gorewada project. Fadnavis reviewed the status of infrastructure and other works required to launch the safari and directed officials to identify the pending works and complete them in a time-bound manner.
The first phase of the Gorewada project was completed in 2021 and includes a wildlife rescue centre, Indian Safari and entrance plaza. The second and third phases have now been planned for the further development of the project.
The second phase includes several key facilities, including a walking trail, African Safari, Safari Plaza, animal hospital and quarantine block. Fadnavis reviewed the progress of the African Safari and took stock of the work required to make it operational.
The third phase will include the Trail of Senses, Biopark, Night Zoo, Gondwana Park, Bio Discovery Plaza, and Tribal Trail.
Through these facilities, the state government plans to develop Gorewada as a major tourism destination offering visitors experiences centred not only on wildlife but also biodiversity, nature, and local culture.
Fadnavis directed officials to appoint an experienced and capable consultant for the further development of the project and stressed the need for long-term planning based on future tourism requirements.
Fadnavis said Gorewada should be developed in a manner that encourages tourists visiting Tadoba and Pench to spend an additional one to two days at the park.
He directed officials to create an effective tourism plan linking Tadoba and Gorewada and develop facilities that would encourage visitors to extend their stay.
The Maharashtra CM also called for planning Gorewada as an important tourism destination in Vidarbha by developing facilities that offer visitors a range of experiences alongside wildlife tourism.
Fadnavis conducted an on-site inspection of the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park. During the visit, he reviewed various facilities and ongoing works and discussed measures required for the project's further development with senior officials.
Maharashtra Minister Ganesh Naik and senior officials were present during the meeting and inspection.
