India's First White Lion Exhibit & Cheetah Restaurant Planned

Mumbai's Byculla Zoo is embarking on an ambitious Rs 490 crore project to create a new exotic zone across 9.25 acres. This initiative aims to showcase wildlife from continents like the Americas, Africa, and Australia. The plan includes themed exhibits for 19 exotic species, featuring critically endangered animals such as gorillas and lemurs.

Key attractions will include the country's first white lion exhibit, offering a safari experience, and a distinctive "cheetah restaurant." This unique dining venue will allow patrons to observe cheetahs, ring-tailed lemurs, and giraffes from within, accommodating up to 500 diners per hour. The African Savannah exhibit will be the largest, spanning 5.6 acres.

Designed by Thailand-based HKS Designer and Consultants, the development is slated for completion in three years. This revamp is part of the zoo's ongoing efforts to modernize the 163-year-old establishment, which also includes plans for a new aviary and a dome-shaped aquarium.