Christmas Day 2025 turned Nandankanan Zoological Park into a bustling hub of activity, drawing massive crowds despite a foggy start to the morning.
By 9 AM, the dense fog had lifted, signalling a promising influx of tourists that swelled throughout the day. By evening closing time, a total of 33,527 visitors had flocked to the park, with 31,608 exploring the zoo itself.
However, the adjoining Botanical Garden saw a stark contrast, welcoming only 1,919 guests due to a ban on picnics – a far cry from previous years when 8,000 to 10,000 nature enthusiasts would gather, leading to significant revenue losses estimated in lakhs of rupees, as noted by local intellectuals.
The zoo is currently undergoing extensive beautification efforts, promising even more attractions in the coming days. In preparation for Christmas and New Year celebrations, authorities have revived the toy train service, though boating remains suspended indefinitely. Despite these enhancements, challenges persist.
The multi-level parking facility stood largely empty, as many visitors opted to park along the main road to avoid fees, causing traffic disruptions and public inconvenience. Locals are demanding stricter enforcement from the administration to address this issue.
Adding to the management concerns, the park’s deputy director is the only male official among a predominantly female cadre of range officers and staff. During peak crowd hours, their visibility has been questioned by the public. Long queues at battery-operated vehicle counters and safari points have sparked minor disputes, prompting authorities to seek assistance from park employees, local social organisations, and nearby villagers to maintain order.
As Nandankanan continues to evolve, these festive crowds highlight its enduring appeal while underscoring the need for better crowd management and policy adjustments to boost visitor satisfaction across all sections.
