Kolkata's historic Alipore Zoo is preparing to welcome a new guest, with talks underway to acquire an African lion from the Hyderabad Zoo. State Forest Minister Manoj Kumar Oraon announced that preliminary discussions have commenced to bring the majestic big cat—native to the wild savannas of the Masai Mara—to Kolkata. The initiative is part of a broader plan to renovate the zoo premises, beautify its central lake, and enhance overall visitor engagement with new wildlife acquisitions.
Alipore Zoo currently houses five Asiatic lions, including two brought from Odisha's Nandankanan Zoological Park in 2024. While African lions were previously showcased at the zoo years ago, subsequent efforts to reintroduce the species remained in the planning phases. The current administration has actively revived the initiative to secure an African lion, aiming to boost public interest and tourist footfall at the facility.
Though formal discussions with Hyderabad Zoo authorities are progressing, details regarding the animal exchange agreement remain to be finalized. Officials clarified that the project is in its early stages, and a official timeline for the lion's arrival will be established once exchange terms are concluded. Forest Minister Oraon expressed optimism that if logistics and regulatory approvals proceed smoothly, formal preparations for the transfer will begin shortly.