Nepal's Long-Delayed Central Zoo Project Moves Forward with New Management Plan
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A stalled plan to build a major new zoo near Kathmandu is being revived. A government committee has recommended handing the project over to the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), which already manages Nepal's existing Central Zoo. This move could unlock progress on the 259-hectare facility, which has seen little development since its 2016 groundbreaking due to funding constraints.
Facts First
- A government committee recommends transferring the project to the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC).
- The proposed 259-hectare zoo near Kathmandu has seen minimal progress since its 2016 groundbreaking.
- Construction and operation are estimated to cost around 10 billion Nepali rupees ($65.8 million).
- Annual government funding has been limited to about 15 million rupees, mostly for staff salaries.
- The NTNC is a semi-governmental body that currently manages Nepal's Central Zoo in Kathmandu.
What Happened
Following the formation of a new government in March 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Environment assigned a committee to find ways to advance the long-delayed zoo project in Suryabinayak municipality. The committee has recommended handing the project over to the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). Preparatory work since the project's 2016 groundbreaking ceremony has been limited to fencing and planning documents due to a lack of funds.
Why this Matters to You
If the project moves forward, it could create a new major recreational and educational destination on the outskirts of Kathmandu. The development of a 259-hectare facility of this scale may create local jobs during construction and operation. For residents and visitors, it could eventually provide expanded access to wildlife conservation and education programs.
What's Next
Nepali officials are now preparing to formally hand over the project to the NTNC. This transfer could potentially unlock new funding and management strategies to begin substantive construction, though the significant estimated cost of 10 billion rupees remains a major hurdle. The NTNC's existing experience managing the Central Zoo may help streamline the project's development.