While the Forest Department has signed an MoU with BMC for setting up a zoo in Aarey Milk Colony, the road ahead seems to be difficult, with the tribal residents of the area opposing the project. Tribals staying close to the plot for the proposed zoo told mid-day that the area is frequented by leopards and any construction activity will only block the path of leopards and other wild animals.

The state government on June 3 signed the MoU with BMC for setting up the international zoo in Aarey on a 120-acre plot at a cost of R500 crore. However, locals and activists are unhappy with the idea. The land where the zoo is coming up is close to Gavdevipada and Khambyachapada, which according to locals, is frequented by leopards.