Context:
The Rajasthan Government has proposed to construct a zoo inside Keoladeo National Park, a World Heritage Site popularly known as Bharatpur bird sanctuary, to display a range of wetland species.
- The purpose of this zoo, called Wetland ex-situ Conservation Establishment (WESCE), is to display a range of wetland species, including rhinos, water buffaloes, crocodiles, dolphins and exotic species.
Relevnace:
GS III: Environment and Ecology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Purpose of WESCE
- Keoladeo National Park
Purpose of WESCE
Rejuvenation of Biodiversity
- The WESCE’s goal is to rejuvenate the biodiversity of Keoladeo National Park, enhancing its unique values recognized globally.
Funding
- The WESCE plan is part of the Rajasthan Forestry and Biodiversity Development Project (RFBDP)
- The French government’s overseas development arm, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), will fund the project up to Rs 12 crore over eight years.
Planned Facilities inside Keoladeo National Park
- Breeding and Reintroduction Centre
- A centre for locally extinct species like otters, fishing cats, blackbucks, hog deer, etc.
- Aquarium and Enclosures
- An aquarium for indigenous species such as Gangetic Dolphin, crocodiles.
- Enclosures for the display of large wetland species like Indian Rhino, Water Buffalo, Barasingha (swamp deer), etc.
Keoladeo National Park
- Location: Eastern part of Rajasthan, India
- Recognition: Designated as a Ramsar site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Special Features:
- Home to thousands of birds, especially during the winter season
- Attracts several migratory birds for breeding and wintering
- Strategically located in the Central Asian migratory flyway
- Hosts rare species such as the Siberian crane
Wildlife:
- Fauna includes Sambar, Nilgai, wild cats, hyenas, wild boar, birds (including raptors and waterfowl), and Jackals
-Source: The Hindu
