Butterfly zone nears completion

Bathinda, February 18

A butterfly zone will be developed in approximately 3.5 acres at Bir Talab Zoo soon. An amount of Rs 10-12 lakh out of total Rs 26 lakh from the MGNREGA has already been spent on this project, which is likely to be completed in a few days.

The zoo authorities said this zone with its rich butterfly fauna will be full of flowers, besides numerous varieties of colourful butterflies. The zoo authorities expect a remarkable rise in butterfly numbers after the completion of the zone.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (D) Sakshi Sawhney, who conceptualised the idea of creating a separate zone for butterflies, said conservation of butterfly diversity would not only prove instrumental in the rise of butterfly varieties in the zoo but it would also increase the footfall of visitors.

“At present, 13-14 different varieties of butterfly are recorded in the area, which is full of multiple indigenous host plants,” she said, adding that a separate sand path for visitors, pond and polyhouse for the butterflies was being made by utilising the funds from the MGNREGA.

Sawhney said children from Bathinda and surrounding areas could learn about insects and increase their interest towards biodiversity.

The butterfly zone will be a unique thing for the people as previously it was only available in cities such as Chandigarh. — TNS