CDA Finalizes Site Near Bara Kahu
The Capital Development Authority has finalized the location for Pakistan’s first world-class wildlife safari park in Islamabad.
The proposed safari destination will be developed in the Malpur Forestry Park area near Bara Kahu and Murree Road. The project will cover around 350 acres of natural forest land.
CDA officials said the project is designed to promote wildlife conservation, eco-tourism, and family recreation in the federal capital. They added that the existing forest ecosystem will be protected during development.
Authorities have assured that the natural habitat will not be damaged. The safari park will be built in a way that preserves the area’s environmental value. Officials said the project will combine modern visitor facilities with wildlife protection.
The feasibility study and conceptual design of the project have already been completed. The scheme will now move toward the tendering phase for construction.
Safari Park to House Over 3,600 Animals
According to the master plan, the safari park will house around 3,605 animals. These animals will be placed across 10 separate safari and wildlife sanctuary zones.
The largest section will be a 1,000-kanal ungulate safari. It will include safari tours, wildlife viewing points, nature trails, and a glass soft-wheel train experience.
A separate 180-kanal big cat zone will also be developed. It will include dedicated enclosures for lions, tigers, bears, hyenas, and African wild dogs.
The plan also includes 340 kanals of wildlife sanctuaries. These areas will be designed for animals such as crocodiles, rhinos, elephants, and hippos.
A 100-kanal Wildlife Care Complex will also be established. It will include veterinary, treatment, and quarantine facilities built on international standards. A dedicated Safari Park Veterinary Clinic will also be part of the project.
Major Attractions Planned for Visitors
The safari park will include several visitor attractions. These include a Safari Pavilion for ticketing and information services.
A 400-kanal Safari Village is also planned. It will feature safari lodges, dining areas, and recreational facilities. A Safari Village Restaurant and a 50-kanal Safari Food Street will be connected directly to Murree Road.
The food street will include themed eateries such as Safari Grill, Jungle Bites, Baobab Cafe, Wild Wraps, and Bushman’s Kitchen.
The central landscape will include an immersive museum, jungle play area, koi fish pond, sitting spaces, and a zipline adventure. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a one-kilometre elevated Forest Canopy Walk.
The project also proposes a 10-kanal natural lake, bridge walks, dedicated safari tours, and a two-kilometre safari chairlift track.
CDA officials believe the project will transform Islamabad into a major wildlife tourism destination. They said it will also support environmental awareness and biodiversity conservation.
