Security lapse at Thrissur Zoological Park, Puthur – India’s First Designer Zoo
Context:
Within a month of opening, 10 deer were killed in a security breach where stray dogs entered the enclosure at Puthur Zoological Park.
Raises concerns about perimeter protection, enclosure design, surveillance gaps, and emergency response.
Background
Thrissur Zoological Park, Puthur (Kerala) was inaugurated on 28 October 2025 by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
It is India’s first designer zoo and Asia’s second largest, spread across 338 acres.
The park fulfils a long-standing plan to shift the century-old Thrissur Zoo from the cramped Chembukkavu site to a more expansive, natural environment.
Design Philosophy
Designed by Jon Coe, a globally renowned Australian zoo architect.
Conceptualised as a “zoo without bars”, replacing cages with open, naturalistic habitats.
Emphasises coexistence, ecosystem simulation, and conservation-based visitor experiences.
Key Features
Nine thematic zones representing different ecosystems of India, including:
Shola grasslands
Arid zone resembling Zululand landscapes
Wetland and rainforest-inspired zones
Dedicated conservation area to support research and captive breeding.
Additional attractions:
Petting zoo
Hologram-based virtual zoo (PPP mode)
KSRTC minibuses for intra-park transport; double-decker buses connecting to the city.
Prelims Practice MCQs
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Thrissur Zoological Park, Puthur:
It is India’s first designer zoo.
It has been designed as a zoo without bars, using naturalistic open enclosures.
It is funded entirely by the Kerala State Plan Fund.
It is the largest zoological park in Asia.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2 and 4
Answer: A
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: It is the country’s first designer zoo.
Statement 2 is correct: Designed by Jon Coe as a “zoo without bars”.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Majority funding is by KIIFB, not entirely by State Plan.
Statement 4 is incorrect: It is Asia’s second largest, not the largest.