The ambitious plan to develop the world’s largest jungle safari in Gurugram has been scaled down significantly, with the first phase now set to cover 2,500 to 3,000 acres instead of the originally proposed 10,000 acres. This change comes in response to sustained opposition from environmentalists and concerned citizens who raised alarms about the potential ecological damage to the Aravalli forest region.
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Initially announced by former Haryana Chief Minister Mr. Manohar Lal Khattar, the safari was to span 10,000 acres across Gurugram and Nuh. Although continuous planning has been underway for the past two years, no on-ground development has taken place yet. Even Chief Minister Mr. Nayab Singh Saini, while presenting the state budget on March 18, had reiterated budgetary support for the full-scale safari project. However, the forest department has now revised the scope.
According to officials, a 10,000-acre project was deemed unnecessarily vast, especially amid widespread objections regarding its ecological impact. Under the revised plan, the safari will now be developed in areas of the Aravalli range with fewer than 40 percent tree cover, ensuring minimal disturbance to the region’s biodiversity. The development will focus on vacant or low-density forest areas.
The safari will feature designated enclosures for big cats, herbivore habitats, a bird park, and nature trails for visitors. The concept aims to offer a world-class experience while maintaining a focus on environmental balance and sustainable tourism.
Currently, Sharjah Safari Park in the UAE’s Al Dhaid region holds the record as the world’s largest, hosting 120 species. The Gurugram jungle safari hopes to exceed this benchmark by including a wide variety of animal species and birds.
Gurugram Divisional Forest Officer Mr. Raj Kumar Yadav confirmed the revision, stating, “Now instead of 10,000 acres, it has been decided to develop it in 2,500 to 3,000 acres. A plan is being prepared for this. Jungle safari will be developed in the area with low density of trees. Work has also been started in this direction.”
The Wildlife Department is now working on finalising the blueprint, with efforts underway to move the project into its execution phase.
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