Mumbai (02.07.2025): NBCC (India) Limited moved to a transformative leap in wildlife conservation and Eco-tourism infrastructure by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FDCM Gorewada Zoo Limited (FGZL), a Government of Maharashtra undertaking. The MoU pertains to the Development of African Safari and Entrance Plaza at the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park, Nagpur.

As the implementing agency, NBCC (India) Limited shall be responsible for the planning, design, execution and overall development of the African Savannah Safari, Kop-je walk trail replicating the unique granite formations of Central Africa and Entrance Plaza. The project estimated at Rs 355 Crore is set to deliver a world-class wildlife experience to be implemented in an area of approximately 63 hectares.

This will include development of African zoo, safari plaza, animal hospital and quarantine centre, theming works, landscaping & plantation and a sewerage system including STP. The scope also includes other allied works such as water supply, service area development, furnishing, interior & visitor amenities etc. The visitor-friendly entrance plaza will include food courts, scenic areas, ticket counters, interpretation centres and a 6-hectare parking area accommodating over 1,900 vehicles. NBCC will also incorporate eco-sensitive and sustainable design elements in alignment with global zoological standards.

The African Safari component of the project will feature an authentic replication of African ecosystems, making it a first-of-its-kind initiative in India. The zoo will be home to over 30 iconic African species, including Giraffe, Burchell’s Zebra, Impala, Gemsbok, Kudu, Blue Wildebeest, Common Eland, Hippopotamus, Ostrich, African Lion, White Rhinoceros, Cheetah, Spotted Hyena, Red River Hog, Chimpanzee, Hamadryas Baboon, Patas Monkey, Ring-Tailed Lemur etc.

This unique layout will provide a drive-through safari and a walking trail, ensuring close encounters and immersive experiences for visitors while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare and safety.

The MoU was signed by Chandrasekharan Bala, CEO, FGZL and Pravin Tukaram Doiphode, Executive Director, NBCC in the presence of Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra who has envisioned this project as a symbol of Maharashtra’s commitment to conservation-led tourism and infrastructure excellence. Ganesh Naik, Forest Minister of Maharastra, Naresh Zurmure, MD, FGZL, K P Mahadevaswamy, CMD, NBCC, Vikas Kharge, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Milind Mhaiskar, Additional Chief Secretary, Vivek Hoshing, Deputy Secretary, Forests, Government of Maharashtra and senior officials from both NBCC and FDCM Gorewada Zoo Limited were also present during the occasion.