State Minister makes surprise visit to Bangladesh National Zoo
State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku made an unannounced inspection of the Bangladesh National Zoo in Mirpur today, underscoring the ministry's commitment to improved management and visitor experience.
Arriving at 11am, he purchased his own entry ticket before entering the premises as an ordinary visitor.
During his two-hour visit, the state minister inspected animal enclosures, the treatment centre, and the medicine store. He began at the animal nutrition section, reviewing the quality and quantity of food supplied. He also spoke with officials and staff regarding animal feed, health management, and overall care.
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The visit aimed to assess the zoo's environment, management, and identify any shortcomings. The state minister also spoke with visitors to understand their concerns and expectations.
The zoo drew thousands of visitors from Dhaka and surrounding districts, with heavy footfall throughout the exhibition areas. The presence of families and children contributed to a festive atmosphere on the premises.
The state minister instructed authorities to take immediate steps to recover approximately seven acres of encroached zoo land. He issued on-the-spot directives to increase public toilets, expand visitor seating, repair roads, improve cleanliness, and increase the number of animals—stressing that visible improvements should begin within the current budget.
Speaking about the inspection, Sultan Salahuddin Tuku said he arrived unannounced to assess the true state of the zoo and identify any mismanagement. He reiterated that directives had been issued to enhance cleanliness, seating, and visitor services, along with plans to introduce new animals.
He noted that while animal food supply was satisfactory, visitors expected a better environment. Necessary steps would be taken, he said, adding that the zoo should operate more efficiently and could become a visitor-friendly, profitable institution with proper planning and implementation.
Those present included the state minister's private secretary Md Abubakar Sarkar, zoo director Dr Mohammad Rafiqul Islam Talukdar, zoo curator Dr Md Atikur Rahman, and other officials.
