Delhi Zoo Gets Futuristic Makeover With AI Cameras And Smart Visitor Tech In INR 400 Crore Upgrade

New Delhi’s iconic National Zoological Park is preparing for one of the biggest transformations in its history with an INR 400 crore modernisation plan that combines artificial intelligence with smart tech to create better habitats and visitor experiences. Officials have cleared the proposal and are now moving toward detailed planning and phased construction that will touch almost every part of the zoo.

The vision behind the overhaul goes well beyond cosmetic changes. The zoo, which opened in 1959 and spans 176 acres, will see new attractions that bring visitors closer to nature while keeping animal welfare in focus. Part of the project includes a sprawling walk-through aviary where birds fly around guests in an environment mimicking their natural habitat and a nocturnal house that lets people observe night-active animals with minimal light disturbance. Traditional steel bars will give way to glass viewing panels at many enclosures so families can see lions, tigers, and other animals with clarity.

Officials say the plan is designed to improve the way people explore the zoo, reduce congestion along Mathura Road and bring world-class standards to India’s capital zoo. Educational elements are also being added, such as a central plaza and auditorium for school groups and wildlife awareness programmes.

Inside The Tech Upgrade: AI Cameras And Smart Info Systems

One of the most talked-about elements of the transformation is the installation of artificial intelligence-enabled cameras that go beyond simple video surveillance. The new system will use analytics to monitor animal behaviour and alert staff if an animal tries to leave its enclosure or if any unusual movement is detected. This tech upgrade aims to strengthen safety for both animals and visitors

Alongside the AI cameras, the zoo is adding more than 1,000 modern QR-coded information boards outside animal enclosures. Guests can simply scan the QR codes with a smartphone to pull up detailed data about the species they are seeing, making every visit more engaging and informative. The QR codes are part of a larger push to make the zoo a “smart” attraction and deepen public interest in wildlife and conservation.

Senior officials say the modernisation will follow a phased approach over four years so that animals are disturbed as little as possible during construction. A detailed project report is expected in the coming months once funding is allocated by the Centre.

The revitalised zoo, when complete, will combine digital tools, enhanced habitats, conservation learning and heightened safety to reset expectations for urban zoos in India.

(With inputs from various sources.)

FAQs

1. What is the new upgrade planned for Delhi Zoo?

National Zoological Park will undergo an INR 400 crore modernisation that includes AI-enabled cameras, smart QR boards, glass enclosures, a walk-through aviary and improved habitats.

2. How will AI cameras help at Delhi Zoo?

The AI-enabled system will monitor animal behaviour, detect unusual movements and alert staff if an animal attempts to leave its enclosure, enhancing safety and welfare.

3. What are QR code boards at Delhi Zoo?

More than 1,000 QR-coded boards will allow visitors to scan and access detailed species information, making the zoo experience more interactive and educational.

4. When will the Delhi Zoo upgrade be completed?

The redevelopment is expected to roll out in phases over four years after the detailed project report and funding approvals are finalised.

5. What new attractions will visitors see?

The revamped zoo will feature a walk-through aviary, nocturnal house, glass viewing panels, improved visitor plazas and enhanced conservation-focused learning spaces.