Closure of Lucknow's Kukrail Picnic Spot paves way for an upcoming Biodiversity Park!

Major changes are in store for Lucknow's Kukrail Protected Area which was established in 1978 as a crocodile breeding centre. Plans are in progress to convert these 10 acres of land into a research centre and lion safari. This decision has come in the wake of Kukrail Prajna Kendra being identified as the first successful breeding centre in the country, where eggs of alligators and tortoises have been reared into babies and released into rivers after 3 years. However, with this initiative gathering momentum, the Kukrail Picnic Spot near Lucknow's Khurram Nagar Chauraha, has been closed forever for visitors.

To be developed like the Etawah Safari Park

In the midst of the pandemic, it has been decided that the picnic spot at Kukrail shall not entertain visitors from now on. Preparations are in full swing to develop the Kukrail forest area into a place where wildlife research shall take place. A biodiversity park will be built here in which, endangered fauna and rare species of birds will be protected. Further, pickup points will be established at 11 places around the park as authorities expect to open it for bus tours for the public in the coming days.

In this regard, the Divisional Forest Officer has stated that the Kukrail picnic spot will be developed on the lines of Etawah Safari Park. The revamped structure is expected to host wildlife animals, including 22 tigers, 30 deer, 25 leopards and 15 bears. A DPR for the same has been prepared and a budget of ₹200 crores has been sought from the government.

Kukrail Picnic Spot last opened on Holi 2021

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The last time that an audience was allowed at the Kukrail Picnic Spot was on the occasion of Holi, i.e., 31 March 2021, when 487 spectators visited it. This spot was inspired by the release of the 1989 cinematic production- Picnic and enclosed within its quarters were childrens' play items, hammocks and statues of animals. Moreover, it attracted a large crowd from the city as this area is considered to be among the quietest surroundings in Lucknow.

-With pictures & inputs from Pawan Kaushal