Assam is set to develop a state-of-the-art Wildlife Safari and Rescue Centre in Dibrugarh district at an estimated cost of Rs 534 crore, with the aim of strengthening wildlife conservation, research, rescue and rehabilitation activities, while also promoting eco-tourism in the state.
Assam Forest and Climate Change Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah reviewed the proposed project on Sunday during a meeting with senior officials of the Forest Department and other concerned departments.
The facility is proposed to be developed over nearly 235 hectares of the Namdang Reserved Forest under the Tingkhong Assembly constituency. The proposed site is located around 20 km from Dibrugarh town and approximately 30 km from Dibrugarh airport, making it relatively accessible to tourists and visitors.
The project will be implemented by the Assam Public Works Department (PWD) in two phases. The first phase, estimated at Rs 259 crore, will focus on developing dedicated enclosures for key wildlife species, including tigers, rhinoceroses, leopards and bears. It will also include a veterinary hospital and a rescue centre for the treatment, rehabilitation and management of wild animals.
The second phase, estimated to cost Rs 275 crore, will focus on facilities for exotic species and strengthening the research component. Proposed enclosures will include those for Asiatic lions, cheetahs, zebras and hippos. An advanced research centre is also planned as part of this phase.
According to the state government, the proposed facility will serve as a major centre for wildlife conservation, rescue and rehabilitation, while creating new opportunities for eco-tourism and employment in the region.
Its strategic location near Dibrugarh town and the airport is expected to improve accessibility and potentially boost wildlife tourism in Upper Assam.
The project forms part of Assam’s broader efforts to strengthen wildlife conservation infrastructure and establish dedicated facilities for the care, treatment, rehabilitation and management of wild animals.
Once completed, the centre is expected to bring together wildlife rescue, conservation, research and tourism facilities, adding a new dimension to Assam’s wildlife management and eco-tourism landscape.
