MLA demands mini zoo at George Everest House

Tribune News Service

Mussoorie, July 27

MLA Musoorie Ganesh Joshi has demanded the construction of a mini zoo at George Everest House, near Hathi Paon, in Mussoorie.

In a letter to Forest Minister Dinesh Agarwal, the MLA said the town did not have a zoo of its own.

He, however, urged the Forest Department to construct a mini zoo and keep rare animals in it so that tourists, especially children, were attracted towards it. He said this project would not only add to the attraction of the town but also generate revenue for the Forest Department.

On the other hand, the MLA’s demand for the construction of a mini zoo in the town has been opposed by a section of residents.

Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board member Sandeep Sahni said the town already had a wildlife sanctuary, where flora and fauna could be seen easily. Hence, there was no need for mini zoo. Moreover, George Everest House is a place of historical significance. A museum and adventure activities should be conducted here.

He said if the Forest Department was interested in constructing a mini-zoo, they should do it on their own land and not on the land of the Tourist Department in Hathipaon near Everest house.

George Everest House is a place of great historical significance. The house is situated in a place from where one can experience the panoramic view of the Doon valley on one side, a panoramic view of the Aglar River valley and the snowbound Himalayan ranges on the other.

The Everest House presently is in a shambles and the demand of museum has fallen on deaf ears so far.

Meanwhile, Joshi aired his satisfaction at the initiation of development projects of Rs 5.90 crore through the MDDA in Mussoorie.

He said around Rs 6 crore projects were proposed by him and the tendering process would begin soon.

Joshi thanked the Chief Minister for sanctioning the budget for all such projects.