Lucknow is preparing to host India’s first night safari in the Kukrail reserve forest, with project approvals expected from the Supreme Court by the end of January. The initiative, spanning 855 acres, aims to combine wildlife conservation with experiential tourism, allowing visitors to view nocturnal species in a simulated moonlight environment via trams. The safari is expected to take approximately 40 minutes, providing a safe, immersive wildlife experience separated from animals by a moat or glass barrier.
The state government has allocated ₹631 crore for the project, of which ₹206 crore has already been released. Construction contracts have been finalised, and officials plan to commence work immediately after receiving court clearance, beginning with the erection of boundary walls to ensure both visitor and animal safety.The project has five core components: establishing the night safari over 400 acres, creating a day zoo on 200 acres, relocating the existing Lucknow Zoo, constructing a four-lane access road, and developing an ecotourism zone. Once complete, the safari and day zoo will house around 115 animal species, with 63 modern enclosures designed to replicate natural habitats. Planned visitor amenities include green spaces, seating areas, and basic recreational facilities, alongside a cafeteria, supporting a family-friendly experience.
Environmental considerations have shaped the project’s design. The Central Empowered Committee (CEC) recommended retaining the existing Lucknow Zoo at its current location and advised against the four-laning of the access road and establishing an ecotourism zone within the reserve forest, which would have led to the removal of more than 800 trees. Officials have indicated compliance with these recommendations for the road, while seeking Supreme Court guidance on other contested elements.Experts in urban planning and wildlife management note that integrating conservation priorities with urban tourism infrastructure requires careful balancing. The Kukrail night safari demonstrates a shift toward sustainable, people-centered urban development that preserves ecological assets while offering economic and recreational benefits. By restricting interventions in sensitive forest areas and enhancing visitor facilities in designated zones, the project aligns with principles of climate resilience and minimal environmental footprint.
Once operational, the night safari is expected to attract domestic and international visitors, generate employment opportunities, and promote environmental awareness among urban residents. Authorities continue to liaise with the Supreme Court and Central Empowered Committee to finalise the project framework, ensuring that construction and operational activities maintain ecological safeguards while delivering a high-quality urban wildlife experience.Looking ahead, Lucknow’s Kukrail night safari could become a model for responsible urban wildlife tourism, demonstrating how cities can expand experiential and recreational infrastructure without compromising natural habitats.
