10.9 Billion Baht Total Budget Approved for New Zoo in Pathum Thani

The Cabinet approved a total budget of THB10.9 billion to build a new zoo in the outskirts of Bangkok. The budget, which will be spread from fiscal years 2023 to 2027, will be used to construct an international-standard zoo. It will also serve as a recreational ground for ecotourism and a learning centre for research and wildlife propagation, conservation, and nature.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said a partial opening will be scheduled for 2025, and a full-scale opening by 2028. A mini zoo will also be open to the public this August as a trial.

The new 48-hectare zoo is set to become three times larger than Dusit Zoo, which has been operating for 80 years before it closed in September 2018. Its design is based on “respect,” as zoo visitors will be regarded more as observers, enjoying the experience with less disturbance to the animals or the “owners” of the zoo.

Director of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand Attaporn Srihayrun said they want to provide a more natural habitat for the animals. “Confining animals to cages is no longer the correct answer,” he was quoted as saying by the Bangkok Post. He added that zoo management worldwide is shifting towards the welfare of the animals, that keeping animals in a cage for entertainment is not good.

Once completed, the zoo will become the home of about 800 animals from 200 different species.