Nagpur: State forest minister Ganesh Naik on Saturday visited Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoo and reviewed ongoing works at the zoo and the Gorewada project.Naik was accompanied by additional chief secretary Milind Mhaiskar, principal chief conservator of forests and head of forest force Shriniwas Rao, and other senior forest department officials.The minister visited the Indian Safari and took stock of animal management, wildlife conservation and habitat-related matters. Zoo director Pandurang Pakhale briefed him during the safari, in the presence of assistant manager Sarika Khot and other zoo officials.Naik later chaired a review meeting at Gorewada Rescue Centre, where officials gave a detailed update on works proposed and under way at the project, including the status of the African safari, overall project progress and plans for future expansion.The meeting also discussed measures needed for wildlife conservation, animal welfare, environmental balance and tourist facilities as the project is developed further. Officials briefed the minister on the current status of various components of the project.Naik and Mhaiskar expressed satisfaction with the progress of ongoing works at the Gorewada project.
