Bhubaneswar, Dec 27: In a welcoming development for nature lovers and tourists, the authorities of Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP) in Bhubaneswar have resumed the boating facility at Kanjia Lake ahead of the New Year celebrations. The boating service, which was suspended around 16 months ago, was relaunched on Friday, bringing joy to visitors who can now once again enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.

The boating facility was temporarily halted on August 7, 2024, after a crocodile sighting in the lake raised safety concerns. However, with necessary precautions in place, the authorities have decided to restart the facility, making it an attractive option for tourists during the festive season.

In addition to the reopening of the boating service, the zoo had earlier reintroduced its popular ropeway facility two years ago. This facility, which operates in collaboration with a Kolkata-based private company, connects NZP with the nearby Botanical Garden, providing visitors with a scenic view of Kanjia Lake. The ropeway was brought back with an investment of Rs 13 crore and has since become a major tourist attraction.

The ropeway facility, originally launched in 1994, was temporarily discontinued after a mishap in 2011. However, its recent reintroduction has been widely appreciated by visitors, enhancing the overall experience at one of Odisha's premier wildlife destinations.

NZP, which houses over 4,000 animals and birds across 160 species, continues to be a major draw for tourists. The zoo is home to 48 species of mammals, 77 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles, and six species of amphibians, making it an important conservation site and a fun-filled destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

As the authorities gear up for the New Year festivities, visitors can now look forward to a more enjoyable and memorable experience at the zoo, complete with boating and the scenic ropeway ride over Kanjia Lake.