Sun Jun 29 14:45:45 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text followed by a rewritten news article:
**Summary:**
A team led by Revenue Minister K. Rajan visited Puthur Zoological Park to assess the feasibility of operating KSRTC electric buses within the park to improve visitor transport. The initiative aims to make the park more accessible, particularly for those who find walking the 6.5 km distance challenging. The buses would operate on a loop within the park, allowing hop-on/hop-off access to different sections. There are also discussions for tourism using open top buses from Thrissur city to Puthur Zoo. Additionally, the minister announced the introduction of 37 new animal and bird species, including exotic species, to the zoo in phases, and the ongoing construction of safari zoo, animal enclosures, pet and virtual zoos.
**News Article:**
**Puthur Zoo to Get Electric Buses, New Exotic Animals in Ambitious Upgrade**
**Thrissur, June 29, 2025** – Visitors to the Puthur Zoological Park can soon expect a more convenient and exciting experience, with plans unveiled for electric bus transport and the introduction of dozens of new animal species. A team headed by Revenue Minister K. Rajan conducted a feasibility study at the park on Sunday to explore the possibility of operating Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) electric buses within the zoo’s sprawling grounds.
The initiative aims to ease the journey for visitors, especially those who struggle with the park’s 6.5 km walking distance. The proposed electric bus service would operate on a looped route, allowing visitors to hop on and off at designated points throughout the park, with a single ticket covering the entire route. Plans are also being discussed for open-top KSRTC buses from Thrissur city to provide a tourism circuit.
“This will significantly improve accessibility and allow everyone to fully enjoy the zoo’s offerings,” stated Minister Rajan during the visit.
In addition to improved transportation, the Puthur Zoo is also set to expand its animal collection. Minister Rajan announced that 37 new species of animals and birds, including those currently absent from other Kerala zoos, will be introduced. The additions, planned in five phases throughout the year, will feature exotic species such as macaws, cockatoos, anacondas, African elands, zebras, and giraffes, sourced both domestically and internationally.
The upgrade also includes the construction of a safari zoo and improved animal enclosures, with tenders expected to be finalized shortly. Dedicated spaces like a pet zoo and virtual zoo are also in the works, catering specifically to children. These improvements should solidify Puthur Zoo as a leading attraction in the state.